3 minute read

A look at the Matildas' second match of their World Cup campaign; a group stage clash with world No.10 Brazil.

AUSTRALIA v BRAZIL

Women's World Cup - Group C

Stade de la Mosson, Montpellier

Thursday June 13, 6pm local - Friday June 14, 2am AEST

AUSTRALIA

Not in 11 years have Australia lost three games in a row but that's the Matildas' record as they prepare to face Brazil, fighting to stay on in France. The Matildas have no points after a first-up 2-1 loss to Italy. Coach Ante Milicic isn't panicking and neither are the players; but they can't afford another slip-up. Elise Kellond-Knight's return to the line-up could be crucial, while injury clouds over Clare Polkinghorne, Caitlin Foord and Lisa De Vanna should hopefully clear.

Coach: Ante Milicic

Captain: Sam Kerr

Ranking: 6

Best World Cup finish: Quarter-finals (2007, 2011, 2015)

Key player: Sam Kerr. However unconvincingly, Kerr got her first World Cup goal against Italy and as captain, it's now time for Australia's brightest star to shine. The Matildas' forward line was unconvincing against Italy and in a friendly with the Netherlands; Kerr needs to take charge.

BRAZIL

The 'Canarinhas' entered the World Cup on a losing streak of historic proportions but turned it around with a 3-0 dismissal of debutants Jamaica on Sunday. Cristiane scored a hat-trick in an ominous display to embarrass those who saw the powerhouse as a spent force. Brazil are a physical, tournament team that respects Australia after recent clashes at the World Cup and Olympics. They will take some beating.

Coach: Vadao

Captain: Marta

World ranking: 10

Best World Cup finish: Runners up (2007)

Key player: Cristiane. Marta might be a six-time world player of the year, and Formiga might have played at her seventh World Cup against Jamaica, but Cristiane proved the difference against Jamaica with a hat-trick. The 34-year-old must be tightly watched.

VENUE

The beautiful Mediterranean coastal city of Montpellier hosts this Group C encounter at the Stade de la Mosson. The home of Ligue 1 side Montpellier HSC was renovated and modernised to host matches at the 1998 men's World Cup and boasts a capacity of 32,900.

HEAD TO HEAD

Overall: 18 matches - Australia 9 wins, Brazil 8 wins, 1 draw

Last meeting: July 2018 - Australia 3-1 Brazil - Tournament of Nations - Kansas City, USA