Sam Kerr netted her 74th international goal to help Australia begin their FIFA Series 2026™ campaign with a routine win over Malawi at Nyayo National Stadium. They’ll face hosts Kenya in the series final, after the the Harambee Starlets swept aside India 2-0.
The Brazil series also begins today, as Canada take on Zambia, before the hosts face Korea Republic.
Australia goals: Emily van Egmond (5), Sam Kerr (41), Alex Chidiac (60), Holly McNamara (86), Leticia McKenna (90+4)
The Matildas made light work of Malawi in the pair’s first-ever meeting at senior level.
Van Egmond gave Joe Montemurro’s side the lead early on when she raced clear and slotted beyond Mercy Sikelo. The Aussies doubled up just before the break, with Kerr netting from close range after a mix up in the Malawi backline.
While Kerr was substituted at half-time the Matildas motored towards victory. Chidiac picked the ball up 30 yards from goal and drove forward before letting fly into the bottom-right corner. The victory was sewn up late on when McNamara tapped home a flowing team move, and McKenna netted on her international debut.
Australia will now face Kenya, while Malawi will take on India.
Kenya goals: Martha Amunyolet (2), Terry Engesha (57)
A goal in each half ensured hosts Kenya opened their campaign with victory over India.
The Harambee Starlets were rewarded for a quick start when Amunyolet pounced on an error by India goalkeeper Shreya Hooda to fire home the opener. Their lead was doubled shortly before the hour, when Engesha was slipped through to slot coolly into the bottom-right corner.
Victory ensures Kenya will take on Australia in the series final, as India prepare to do battle with Malawi.
To come
To come
