Matildas hold on for hard-earned victory over Brazil
THE Matildas have opened their friendly series against Brazil in style, claiming a 2-1 victory at Pepper Stadium in Penrith.
In front of a sell-out crowd of 15,089, the Matildas were troubled early but soon started to dictate the tempo of the match.
The first half proved to be a difficult affair, with Brazil frustrated by Australia's pace and fluency with the ball, and frequently looking to cut down the Matildas' ventures forward.
But the game settled once some yellow cards were dealt out - and the Matildas soon found a way to capitalise.
Australia would control the game for the rest of the first half, with an audacious volley from all-time leading goalscorer Lisa De Vanna breaking the deadlock in the 41st minute.
While Brazil ventured forward in the second half, it was Australia who would strike first, with a superb no-look, flick-on header from Kerr doubling its lead.
While the visitors would hit back late in the piece, with Debinha capitalising on some fine work from Cristiane, Australia was able to hold on, overcoming some scary moments in the closing minutes to come away 2-1 victors - delighting the crowd in the process.
