Co-Host Australia thump Canada to keep World Cup dream alive

July 31: Australia kept their Women's World Cup dream alive as they advanced to the last-16 stage by thrashing Canada.

Hayley Raso scored twice, Mary Fowler was also on target and Steph Catley netted a late penalty as the co-hosts impressed in a game they had to win to avoid elimination.

The Matildas finished top of Group B - and did so without Sam Kerr, an unused sub despite declaring herself fit.

Canada suffered their first Women's World Cup group-stage exit since 2011.

Nigeria's draw with the Republic of Ireland means Australia will go forward to face the runners-up in Group D - who could still be England - at Stadium Australia in Sydney on 7 August.

(BBC)