Sam Kerr scored her first international goal in 28 months on Sunday, propelling Australia to a 1-0 victory over the Philippines in the opening match of the Women’s Asian Cup at Perth Stadium.
The Chelsea striker, returning to competitive play after a nearly two-year absence due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, headed in a close-range goal in the 14th minute. It marked Kerr’s 70th goal for the Australian national team.
While Kerr’s goal proved to be the decisive moment, the match saw Australia struggle to capitalize on further opportunities. “I think I’m just finding my confidence again,” Kerr told Paramount Plus after the game. “I experience like I’m still my normal self, I’ve just got to get more touches in and around the box.”
The Philippines, led by Australian-born defender Angie Beard, presented a resolute defense, limiting Australia’s attacking options for much of the contest. Wingers Hayley Raso and Caitlin Foord created chances but lacked consistent finishing, and Kerr’s influence diminished as the game progressed, according to the ABC. Australia’s goalkeeper, Chloe Lincoln, saw limited action due to the Philippines’ lack of attacking threat.
Late substitutions, including Mary Fowler, recently recovered from an ACL injury herself, and Amy Sayer, injected renewed energy into the Australian attack but failed to extend the lead.
The match unfolded against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced the postponement of matches in the West Region, originally scheduled for March 2-3, following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran and subsequent retaliatory strikes.
In a statement, the AFC affirmed its commitment to player and fan safety, stating it was in “close and regular contact” with the Iranian women’s national team and officials in Gold Coast, offering “full support and assistance.”
Australia’s next match is scheduled for Thursday against Iran at the Gold Coast Stadium. Iran is slated to open its campaign against South Korea on Monday.
