4. Cheryl Salisbury’s late equaliser sends the Matildas to World Cup knockout phase for the first time

Competing at their fourth World Cup 2007, the Matildas had never reached the knockout phase of the competition before.

The group stage started successfully with a win over Ghana 4-1, and a draw with former winners Norway 1-1. Going into the final group match against Canada, the Matildas needed at least a draw to progress to the quarterfinals for the first time.

Down 2-1 late in the game after a goal to Canada’s Christine Sinclair, it was Lisa De Vanna who made a crucial run down the left flank in the 92nd minute.

With defenders drawn to De Vanna, marauding central defender Cheryl Salisbury found space in the box to tuck home an equalizing goal and send the Matildas through.

While the Matildas lost their quarterfinal in a close game to Brazil, their achievement was significant due to the boost it provided to women’s football in Australia.

The new national competition the W-League was born the following year, bringing with it a stronger pathway to elite football for women and girls all over the country.