Matildas have warned world they’re more than just Sam Kerr (1:46)The Far Post podcast discuss the realisation for the Matildas and other World Cup contenders that they pose a massive threat with or without Sam Kerr. (1:46)
France midfielder Kenza Dali says Les Bleues are ready for the anticipated hostile reception in Brisbane on Saturday when they face off against Australia in their Women’s World Cup quarterfinal clash.
After dispatching Morocco 4-0 in the round of 16 in Adelaide on Tuesday, Dali is under no illusions about what France can expect from the home crowd.
The Aston Villa playmaker said each time France have stepped out onto the park this tournament, it has felt like an away match — the perfect preparation for squaring off against the Matildas on home soil in a knockout World Cup fixture.
“The crowd is going to be against us,” Dali said. “I feel like this World Cup everywhere we played the crowd was against us and at the moment it’s good [preparation] for us, so it’s up to us to handle the pressure.”
Dali, who scored France’s second goal in the near-flawless performance against Morocco, kept a close eye on Australia’s 2-0 round of 16 victory over Denmark on Monday.
The 32-year-old praised the Matildas and singled out Caitlin Foord who was instrumental in Australia’s win. Dali also cautioned about reading too much into the pre-tournament friendly encounter between the two sides where the Matildas defeated France 1-0.