Sam Kerr aiming to be at fifth World Cup in 2027 as Australia qualify

Leading forward Sam Kerr expressed her goal of competing in a fifth World Cup in 2027 following Australia's early qualification for the event hosted in Brazil.

Under coach Joe Montemurro, the team secured their place for the ninth time in a row by narrowly defeating North Korea 2-1 on Friday, advancing to the semi-finals of the Women's Asian Cup held in Perth.

As Chelsea's forward and Australia's top scorer, Kerr led the Matildas to the semi-finals of the 2023 World Cup and now seeks to enter an exclusive club by participating in her fifth tournament in Brazil.

"As a football squad, this represents the ultimate achievement," commented the 32-year-old Kerr, who netted the decisive goal versus North Korea.

"Securing our position there brings a fantastic sensation.

"Brazil stands as a powerhouse in football. It promises to be an extraordinary World Cup. The experience will be unforgettable. I truly hope to be part of it. Simply having the chance for everyone to perform on the grandest platform is remarkable."

Arsenal's Caitlin Foord and Leicester City's Emily van Egmond, both consistent starters in the lineup, share the ambition of reaching a fifth World Cup.

The leading six teams from this continental event in Australia will earn spots in Brazil.

Montemurro commended his players for handling the fierce pressure from the fast-paced North Korean outfit and capitalising on the opportunities that arose.

"They rank as the strongest team in the competition. Without doubt. They form an excellent unit," he remarked about the ninth-placed North Koreans.

"Their style of play has its justifications. It proves challenging and erratic.

"We generated few chances ourselves. We endured considerable resistance. Yet that is how you overcome such opponents. You must control the match appropriately, and luckily for us, we managed it well."

Australia's prize is a semi-final matchup in Perth against either the title holders China or Taiwan.