Sam kerr
Star striker Sam Kerr has set her sights on featuring in a fifth FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027 after Australia women’s national soccer team became the first side to qualify for the tournament scheduled to take place in Brazil.
Australia sealed their place at the global showpiece after edging North Korea women’s national football team 2–1 on Friday in Perth, a victory that secured a semi-final spot at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup and extended their remarkable run of World Cup appearances to nine consecutive tournaments.
The 32-year-old Chelsea Women forward, who also captains the Matildas, scored the decisive goal in the match. Kerr previously led Australia to the semi-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and hopes to join an elite group of players by competing in five World Cups.
“For us as a footballing team, it’s the pinnacle,” Kerr said. “To put our team there is an amazing feeling. Brazil is a footballing nation, and what an incredible World Cup it will be. I hope I’m there.”
Two other Australian stars Caitlin Foord of Arsenal Women and Emily van Egmond of Leicester City Women are also targeting a fifth World Cup appearance.
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The top six teams at the continental tournament automatically qualify for the World Cup in Brazil.
Head coach Joe Montemurro praised his side for withstanding heavy pressure from the North Koreans and capitalising on the few chances that came their way.
“They’re the best team in the tournament. They really are,” Montemurro said. “They play in a way that is very difficult and unpredictable. We didn’t create much, but we managed the game well and took our opportunity.”
Australia will now face either China women’s national football team or Chinese Taipei women’s national football team in the semi-finals in Perth.
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