Australia’s initial line-up included the return of Steph Catley into the fold as centre back and Hayley Raso as right back.

A notable name on the bench was Alanna Kennedy, who has become a staple in the starting XI during the recent Algarve Cup. 

A highly physical tone was set for the match early on, with both sides going in strong.

One of Korea’s most formidable chances came in the fifth minute when Han Chae Rin’s corner floated to the far left post, where captain and defender Cho So-hyun was free.

It was a tense moment for Australia, tempered by a sloppy touch that saw them able to clear the ball quickly.

Moments later, Australia responded with Katrina Gorry tapping into the box to Lisa De Vanna.

The latter clattered with a defender and the ball rolled to Sam Kerr, whose shot deflected just wide of the post.

The dominant trend for the first half saw Australia in their attacking end, attempting to navigate an organised Korean defence.

Australia’s high press was often stifled by anywhere from eight to ten players behind the ball.

Quantity was not the only factor that locked the Matildas out. 

Central defenders Lim Seon-joo and Kim Do-yeon worked quickly and positioned themselves well with many shots were deflected off of them.

Cho also stood out as she worked across the pitch to stifle Australia’s play.

Spectators, commentators and players alike all showed discontent at Korea’s penchant for time wasting, especially from goalkeeper Yoon Young-Guel, which added disruption to Australia’s momentum.  

Whilst the Matildas often held onto the ball, utilised patient passing combinations and produced slow build-ups on goal, any potential acceleration from speedy players was stopped by lack of space.

Tameka Butt was stand out, using high pressure off the ball to open up passing channels and having some of her own shots.

Gorry’s touch was on and she played an instrumental role in many build ups.

The second half saw more of the same with additional intensity in the first 20 minutes and some final surges forward by Korea in the final 10.

Shot takers included Kerr, De Vanna, Chloe Logarzo and Kyah Simon.

De Vanna’s bicycle kick in the 58th minute will be imprinted in many minds, with the ball just escaping Logarzo by the post.

Simon came on as an impact player in the 70th minute and was dished the closest chance of the game by Catley in the 88th minute. Kerr deliberately dodged the cross, with Simon’s shot sailing over the crossbar.

Both sides will go into second games craving goals. Australia will face Vietnam on Tuesday 10th April, kick-off 8pm local time, (Wednesday 11th April 3am AEST). Meanwhile, Korea will play Japan same day at 4.45pm (11.45pm AEST).