Welcome to our live coverage of the Matildas semi-final against Sweden at the Tokyo Olympics.About two hours out from the 9pm kick-off it was confirmed Australian superstar Sam Kerr will start the match, despite speculation yesterday she could be used off the bench because of concerns over her heavy workload.
It seemed fanciful to rest our best player from arguably the biggest game in the history of women’s football in our country, but there are also concerns asking Kerr to lead the line after playing every minute of the tournament to this point is a massive gamble.
Australia progressed to the last four showdown after Kerr scored twice in a 4-3 quarterfinal win against Great Britain.
The winner of tonight’s clash will play Canada – which eliminated the US in the first semi-final after Jessie Fleming converted a 74th minute penalty kick to secure a 1-0 win – for the gold medal.
It was Canada’s first win against neighbour in 20 years and relegated the world champions to the bronze medal match.
Australia and Sweden met in the group stage with the Swedes coming away 4-2 winners after Kerr missed a penalty.
Matildas starting XI: 2. Sam Kerr, 6. Chloe Logarzo, 7. Steph Catley, 9. Caitlin Foord, 10. Emily van Egmond, 12. Ellie Carpenter, 13. Tameka Yallop, 14. Alanna Kennedy, 16. Hayley Raso, 17. Kyah Simon, 18. Teagan Micha (gk). Subs: 1. Lydia Williams, 3. Kyra Cooney-Cross, 4. Clare Polkinghorne, 5. Aivi Luik, 11. Mary Fowler, 15. Emily Gielnik, 21. Laura Brock
