The Australian women’s national football team, known as the Matildas, triumphed decisively over Haiti with a score of 7-1 in an international friendly match held in France on Thursday. The game, which showcased Australia’s football prowess, featured two early goals that set the tone for a dominant performance.
Less than two minutes into the match, Leticia McKenna opened the scoring for the Matildas with a well-placed shot following a cross from Clare Wheeler. However, Haiti quickly responded. Just seconds later, Melchie Dumornay, a standout player nominated for the last two Ballon d’Or trophies, leveled the score with a stunning goal, skillfully maneuvering past three defenders before firing a left-footed shot past goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold.
Commentator Grace Gill remarked on the significance of Dumornay’s goal, emphasizing the excitement it generated among Haitian supporters in the stands. “It’s a goal worth celebrating – and it’s the dangerwoman,” she noted.
Despite the early equalizer from Haiti, the Matildas regained control before halftime when McKenna scored again from close range, securing a 2-1 lead. Subsequently, an unfortunate own goal by Haiti’s Kethna Louis further extended Australia’s lead after a miscommunication with her goalkeeper.
The Matildas continued their offensive surge in the second half. A well-coordinated play involving Caitlin Foord and Sam Kerr led to a fourth goal, with Kerr finding the back of the net in the 65th minute. Shortly after, debutant Daniela Galic marked her presence on the field by scoring her first international goal, further increasing Australia’s lead.
In an unusual turn of events, an attempted cross from Wheeler unexpectedly sailed into the goal, contributing to the Matildas’ commanding scoreline. Holly McNamara capped off the performance with a final goal in the 89th minute, beating the Haitian goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation.
The Matildas played without defender Steph Catley, who was managed in agreement with her Women’s Super League club, Arsenal. The team heads into their next matches after this emphatic victory, highlighting their readiness for future challenges on the international stage.
