The teams have developed quite the rivalry over the past few years.

Their more recent battles have seen Australia take the win on each occasion, beginning with the 6-1 demolition at last year’s Tournament of Nations and ending with the two-game series in September 2017.

These two teams are ranked seventh (Brazil) and eighth (Australia) respectively and have both had solid starts to 2018.

Brazil won the Copa América Feminina, going through the tournament undefeated and qualifying for next year’s World Cup in the process. As Canarinhas scored 31 goals in seven matches, conceding only twice.

Meanwhile, Australia has played 10 games in 2018 for four wins – one via a penalty shootout at the Asian Cup – four draws and two losses. While those defeats came in crucial matches, none more so than the Asian Cup final, the team has qualified for a seventh straight World Cup.

At the 2017 edition of the tournament, these teams’ fortunes couldn’t have been more contrasting. Australia lifted the trophy while Brazil secured a lone point and finished last.

No doubt, the South American champions will look for better results this year

Key players

Australia – Sam Kerr

Kerr isn’t just one of the biggest stars in Australian football, she’s one of the biggest stars in the game at the moment. Nine goals in 13 games for Chicago Red Stars make her joint top scorer in NWSL and the Matildas would love her to continue that form in green and gold.

Brazil – Beatriz

The 24-year-old was Brazil’s top scorer at the Copa América Feminina with six goals including braces against Ecuador and Venezuela. She’s also scored five goals in her last five matches for Incheon Red Angels in the South Korean League.


Where it will be won:

Although the Matildas’ record against Brazil has been great over the last few years (barring that Olympic quarter final), As Canarinhas have found some killer form of late. Much like their last meeting in Newcastle, another goal fest could be on the cards. Both teams have brilliant goal scorers and record holders among them. This makes the final third the key area of the pitch in this battle.

                                                              
Match details

Children’s Mercy Park, Kansas City
Date: Friday, 27 July AEST (Friday, 26 July local)
Kick-off: 6.15am AEST (3.15pm local
Broadcast: Live on Fox Sports 507