Women’s World Cup: Australia through to last eight after beating Denmark

Australia have reached the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals after a 2-0 win over Denmark.

Caitlin Foord put the Matildas ahead in the first half before Hayley Raso added a second in the 70th minute.

The co-hosts will play either France or Morocco in the last eight on Saturday.

Denmark looked like the most likely to score in the early stages, with ex-Chelsea midfielder Pernille Harder firing wide before striking into the arms of Australia goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold.

The Danes struggled to create too many other chances though,despite having the majority of the possession.

Australia took the lead when Foord hit the back of the net from a tight angle after a superb through-ball from Mary Fowler.

Foord could have added a second before half time but her shot was blocked by Rikke Sevecke.

Raso did double Australia’s lead in the second half though, when she finished into the bottom left corner after being teed up by Emily van Egmond.

With 10 minutes remaining, Australia captain Sam Kerr came off the bench to make her first appearance in the tournament after a calf injury.

She came close to adding a third goal but her powerful strike went over the crossbar.

Australia will find out who they will be playing in the last eight when France meet Morocco tomorrow.

Cover Photo: Flying the Flag by Mertie used under license by CC BY 2.0.