Women’s Asian Cup: Sam Kerr heads winner as hosts Australia beat Philippines in opener
Captain’s first-half goal enough for rusty Matildas team to get their campaign off to winning start against plucky but outmatched opponents
Sam Kerr celebrated her first international goal in 28 months as Australia kicked off their home Women’s Asian Cup with a plodding 1-0 win over the Philippines at Perth Stadium on Sunday.
Absent for almost two years with an ACL injury, striker-captain Kerr notched her 70th goal for the “Matildas” and first since an Olympic qualifier against Taiwan in the same city in November 2023.
After the 44,379-strong crowd – a record for the Women’s Asian Cup – was warmed up by American singer Audrey Nuna of KPop Demon Hunters fame, big cheers greeted the players when they emerged onto the pitch.
Kerr’s 14th-minute strike was a delight for home fans, but it proved the sole highlight in a match where the Matildas blew chances and the 41st-ranked Philippines defended in numbers.
“I think I’m just finding my confidence again,” the Chelsea striker said of her long lay-off with injury.
“I feel like I’m still my normal self, I’ve just got to get more touches in and around the box.