Kyra Cooney-Cross Shines as Matildas Crush Football Ferns 5-0

Australia’s national women’s football team, the Matildas, delivered a commanding performance, defeating New Zealand’s Football Ferns 5-0 in a friendly match held in Gosford. The standout moment came from Kyra Cooney-Cross, who scored a stunning long-range goal in the 71st minute, echoing her impressive strike against Germany in October 2022.

The match marked a critical preparation step for the Matildas, who are gearing up to host the Asian Cup in March 2024. From the outset, they displayed relentless energy and creativity, taking control of the game early on. Amy Sayer opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a precise side-footed shot from the left side of the penalty area, following a clever assist from Katrina Gorry.

Shortly thereafter, Hayley Raso doubled the lead with a curling effort from outside the box in the 24th minute. Raso capitalized on a defensive mistake by New Zealand’s Maya Hahn, whose error allowed the Australian forward to find the back of the net off the post, leaving goalkeeper Anna Leat stranded.

Despite facing a challenging first half, the Football Ferns regrouped after the break, initially applying pressure and forcing Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold into action. However, the Matildas quickly responded, with Ellie Carpenter scoring to make it 3-0 just moments before Cooney-Cross’s spectacular goal.

The scoring was capped off by Gorry, who converted from close range after combining with substitute Holly McNamara. In stoppage time, Matildas captain Steph Catley had a penalty saved by Leat after McNamara was fouled, but the outcome was already secure.

The match served as an important final tune-up for the Matildas before their upcoming competitive fixtures. Sam Kerr, who is still recovering from a lengthy injury layoff, remained an unused substitute, further building anticipation for her return.

The Matildas and the Football Ferns will conclude their two-match friendly series on Tuesday in Adelaide, providing one last opportunity for Australia to fine-tune their squad ahead of the Asian Cup next March.