Uncertain Return of Sam Kerr Puts Australia's World Cup Hopes at Risk

 Uncertain Return of Sam Kerr Puts Australia's World Cup Hopes at Risk

Uncertain Return of Sam Kerr Puts Australia's World Cup(Image-Getty)

Australia faced a significant setback in their surprising defeat to Nigeria, sorely missing both Sam Kerr's leadership and finishing abilities. However, it remains uncertain whether the co-hosts' captain will return to salvage their Women's World Cup campaign against Canada.

Currently, Australia sits one point behind Nigeria and Canada in Group B. To avoid a disastrous exit from the tournament and secure a spot in the knockout phase, they will likely need to secure a victory against Canada in their upcoming match on Monday.

Unfortunately, Sam Kerr has been sidelined due to a calf injury, and her absence has been keenly felt by the team. Coach Tony Gustavsson provided little reassurance to hopeful fans, stating that confirmation of her return might only come on the night before the Canada game. The situation is so tight that they might have to assess her fitness on the game day itself.

Australia's reliance on Kerr has been a long-standing concern, exacerbated by injuries to other key players on the team. For instance, attacking midfielder Mary Fowler was unavailable for the Ireland game due to a concussion, and forward Kyah Simon has been recovering from a knee ligament injury and has not played in the tournament.

In the match against Nigeria, Gustavsson placed his trust in Emily van Egmond, who replaced Fowler in the starting lineup. She contributed with a goal just before halftime, assisted by Caitlin Foord's cross. Despite some positive moments, Australia struggled as Nigeria took the lead, and the late substitutions made by Gustavsson couldn't turn the game around.

The team faced challenges with possession, often resorting to firing long balls forward where Kerr might have been instrumental, had she been on the field. Gustavsson admitted that he might have waited too long to make crucial changes and acknowledged the need for post-match review.

As Australia prepares for the critical match against Canada, they must find a way to overcome their reliance on Sam Kerr and address the injury concerns affecting other key players. Only a decisive victory against Canada will ensure their progress to the knockout phase of the Women's World Cup.