Cooney-Cross fires in 50th cap as Matildas stun Germany

Our Victorian CommBank Matildas starred in Duisburg overnight, with Kyra Cooney-Cross’ stunning strike helping the Matildas defeat Olympic Bronze Medalists Germany 2-1.

In her 50th appearance for the Matildas, Cooney-Cross levelled the score when her strike from near halfway lobbed the retreating German goalkeeper Stina Johannes.

The goal was her first ever in international football; the perfect way for the 22-year-old to celebrate her 50th international cap.

The Matildas struck again in the 78th minute when Steph Catley’s corner found the head of Clare Hunt, who expertly guided home her first international goal and the eventual game winner.

In her post-match interview, Cooney-Cross spoke about the match and the moment she opened her international goal scoring account.

“I couldn’t stop thinking about it after I scored,”

“We dispossessed the ball, and I saw Michelle [Heyman] running behind, but then I also looked up at the keeper, and she was off her line running back,” she recalled.

“So I thought, you know, I’ll have a shot and see if it goes in. Luckily, it did.

“We’ve all been waiting for this moment for a long time, and it’s finally happened, especially in a big game, it makes it even more special.”

Cooney-Cross became the second fastest Matilda to reach 50 international matches in the green and gold.

“I’m so grateful to get 50 caps,” she said.

“I definitely wouldn’t be here without a few of the girls sticking by my side and helping me get there.

“It’s a surreal moment. I’m feeling very proud and grateful.”

The Matildas return home to Australia next, with matches in November and December against Brazil and Chinese Taipei in Queensland and Victoria.

Get your tickets to the Chinese Taipei match at AAMI Park here and your tickets to the match at GMHBA Stadium here.