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In the wake of the Matildas advancing to the knockout stages of the FIFA Women’s World Cup with a monster 4-0 win over Canada in their final group stage match, their road to the title has become somewhat clearer.
On Monday night, Real Madrid signing Hayley Raso set the tone with a first-half double before goals to returning striker Mary Fowler and stand-captain Steph Catley sealed victory for Australia over the reigning Olympic champions.
Despite starring down elimination from the tournament, the result rocketed Australia to the top of Group B with six points after eventual runner-ups Nigeria finished with a scoreless draw against the Republic of Ireland.
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In continuing their do-or-die path to the final, the Matildas will next face the runner-up of Group D in Denmark.
The Danes qualified for the round of 16 after executing a clinical 2-0 victory over the winless Haiti on Tuesday night.
In the other determining group match, China PR was unable to overcome group leaders England – going down 6-1.
With Denmark and China tied on equal points heading into the final group matches, China needed to defeat England to claw their way into second position.
If the Matildas can overcome Denmark, they could face fellow top-10 sides France (F), Brazil (F) and Germany (H) in the quarter or semi finals en route to the World Cup final on August 20.
Australia and Denmark’s round of 16 clash will take place on Monday, August 7 at Sydney’s Accor Stadium.
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