Matildas crush Haiti 7-1 in World Cup preparation

Summarised from 3 outlets · 4 reports · Updated 13 Oct, 22:29 · Archive

Australia's women's football team defeated Haiti 7-1 in a World Cup warm-up match in France.

The Matildas defeated Haiti 7-1 in a World Cup preparation match played in Chambly, France on Tuesday. The dominant display saw Australia bounce back after a 4-2 defeat to Germany, with midfielder Leticia McKenna scoring twice in the first half to lead the charge.

McKenna struck within 80 seconds of kick-off when Clare Wheeler cut the ball back for her to finish with a one-touch strike. She added a second classy first-half goal, and Haiti defender Kethna Louis then put through her own goal. Australia's other scorers were Caitlin Foord, Daniela Galic, Clare Wheeler and Holly McNamara.

McKenna's brace bolstered her case for a first FIFA Women's World Cup call-up. She has now secured three goals in four national team caps. Captain and striker Sam Kerr, who had complained of ankle soreness after the German match, played and was influential in two of the goals, allaying fitness concerns.

Coach Joe Montemurro made four changes to the side and has said he intended to get a clearer picture of his squad before next year's World Cup in Brazil. Arsenal's Steph Catley was unavailable through a managed absence.

Australia's defence looked timid in the first half when Haiti employed a counterattack approach, but the Matildas utterly dominated the second half as their opponents' challenge fell away. The victory allowed Australia to maintain their No.15 world ranking, which puts them in pot two for the World Cup draw, giving them a mathematically better chance of a more favourable draw.

How it is being reported

• Matildas run riot against HaitiThe Matildas put on a clinic in a 7-1 rout of Haiti in a friendly in France.WAtoday · 13 Oct, 22:54
• McKenna, Kerr dazzle as Matildas run riot over HaitiLeticia McKenna starred with two goals as the Matildas rebounded from a poor loss with a big win over Haiti as they prepare for next year's World Cup.Perth Now · 13 Oct, 22:17
• McKenna, Kerr dazzle as Matildas run riot over HaitiLeticia McKenna starred with two goals as the Matildas rebounded from a poor loss with a big win over Haiti as they prepare for next year's World Cup.The West Australian · 13 Oct, 22:17
• Matildas stun Haiti in 90 secondsLeticia McKenna finds the back of the net for the Matildas to open the scoring against Haiti within 90 seconds of kick off.WAtoday · 13 Oct, 20:39

In this story: Leticia McKenna · Sam Kerr · Joe Montemurro · Australia · Haiti · France · Brazil

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