CommBank Matildas captain Sam Kerr praised the fighting spirit of the team after their 2-1 semi-final victory over China PR on Tuesday evening.
Kerr scored the goal that proved to be the winner as Australia advanced to the final of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™.
“Everyone was just fighting for each other,” she said.
“It takes everyone, and that was hard tonight. Everyone played their part, and that's what happens when the team sticks together. We’re very happy.
“We just have so much belief. Even with people saying we took the hard way, you saw the fight and the belief that we have in each other, and we're building up and getting better each game.”
She explained the emotion behind her goal celebration, where she pointed at her head.
“It was just about a little bit of confidence in myself,” she said.
“I know I can be one of the best players when I'm in front of the goal, and I feel like I'm finding my feet again. It’s just about believing and knowing that I'll always be there.”
Kerr’s goal was assisted by Caitlin Foord, a player she has played with hundreds of times for both club and country.
“Caitlin's been immense this tournament,” she said.
“I think she's maybe assisted every goal of mine, so I've got a lot to thank her for! She's a world-class player… she had a great game tonight with a goal and assist.”
Another player she has featured alongside many times is Emily van Egmond, who became the player with the most appearances for the national team when she entered the field of play for the 170th time.
“She's been in this team through thick and thin,” Kerr said.
“I've grown up with her since we were 13-years-old, and I think she's the unsung hero of this team. You need people like that in your team. I'm so proud of her, and I'm so proud I could be here for it.”
She had a message for the fans ahead of the all-important final on Saturday.
“The home crowd helps us a lot, so I think it's a perfect opportunity for us,” she said.
“I know that we've got an amazing team. We’ll stick together, like we always do, with that ‘Never Say Die’ Matildas attitude.
“We need you guys. Pack the stadium. Be loud. Wear your jerseys.”
AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Final
Japan or Korea Republic v CommBank Matildas
Date: Saturday, 21 March 2026
Venue: Stadium Australia, Sydney
Time: 8:00pm AEDT
Broadcast: Network 10 and Paramount+
Radio: ABC Sport & ABC Listen
Buy Tickets