Captain Sam Kerr had a particularly impressive game, netting all 4 of Australia’s goals and making history in the process. Her fourth goal of the game made her the third highest scoring individual in any Women’s World Cup game.
She also became the first Australian to score a World Cup hat-trick. It’s arguably the best World Cup performance by any Australian player, ever.
Kerr’s performance and four goals, ensure the Matildas finish second in Group C, behind Italy and above Brazil. They will now progress to the knock out stages of the World Cup.
FT: JAM 🇯🇲 1 – 4 🇦🇺 AUS
Four goals by Sam Kerr ensures Australia’s place in the #FIFAWWC Round of 16 after a convincing victory over Jamaica! pic.twitter.com/ybkjWHiEHJ
— AFC (@theafcdotcom) June 18, 2019
A dominant first half for the Matildas saw two goals from Kerr establish a comfortable lead at the break. In the 69th minute, Kerr scored her hat-trick, with the fourth goal coming towards the end of the game.
Congratulations, @TheMatildas! 🇦🇺
See you in the Round of 16! #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/XDTEpD9les
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) June 18, 2019
Coach Ante Milicic praised Kerr for her history-making performance.
“It was interesting in the lead-up to the game, you know, Sammy’s all about goals,” he said in an interview after the final whistle.
“We didn’t want to have that focus before the game, particularly about individuals. It was more about getting a result and winning the game. Strikers are like that.
“She’s a special one and in the end I’m fortunate not only with the win but if there’s one player you’re really happy for to score the goals it’s Sammy. So I’m delighted for her.
“It’s history, as an Australian player at a World Cup to do what she’s done.
“All the accolades must go to Sam but also the service she got throughout the game from the rest of the team.”
The Matildas next game is against Norway in Nice on Sunday.