Player ratings: Star 'found out' in lucky Matildas escape as big names improve after shocker
To say the Matildas' second group match of Paris 2024 against Zambia was a thriller would be the understatement of the century.
Eleven goals, hat-tricks, a VAR controversy, but it eventually finished in a 6-5 win – the luckiest of escapes for the Matildas.
The victory, as slim as it was, keeps them in contention to progress.
READ MORE: Controversy, VAR, 11 goals and a 90th minute Matildas winner
READ MORE: Brutal crash sends local hope to hospital
READ MORE: Three words that summed up extraordinary Fox theatre perfectly
The Aussies have one more group match against the USA, which they must win to go through or rely on Zambia dishing out a hiding to Germany, which would put them through on goal difference.
We've rated every player from the game.
Watch every moment, every medal of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now. Plus, every event streaming ad free, live and on demand with 4K on Stan Sport.
Ellie Carpenter battled at times in the Matildas' thriller against Zambia. Getty
Mackenzie Arnold - 4.5
Was at fault for the third goal as her weak punch was punished by Zambia star Barbra Banda. Could do little else with the other goals and came up with some crucial second half stops.
Emily Van Egmond - 5
Came into the starting line up to help provide a little more physicality and presence in the forward areas for the Matildas. Provided some nice touches, but was caught in possession at times.
Steph Catley - 8
Was the Matildas' best as she scored two goals, including a pressure penalty to draw Australia level in the second half. She also provided the assists for the Matildas' first goal, and also the winner to Heyman. Defensively solid as always against a dangerous and lively Zambia attack.
Caitlin Foord - 6
Never stopped running and won the crucial penalty that would eventually draw the Matildas level at 5-5. Became more involved as the game stretched in the second half and was unlucky not to see her name on the scoresheet.
Alana Kennedy - 5.5
Came up with the Matildas' first goal, latching onto a flighted free kick from Catley to power a header past the Zambia goalkeeper. Was challenged defensively all night and struggled to contain a rampant Zambia attack.
Clare Hunt - 5
Another tough night for Hunt in the heart of Australia's defence as Zambia's mobility and pace created issues for a usually composed figure. Came up with some crucial interceptions and tackles late on as Australia held on for the victory.
Haley Raso - 6.5
Was one of the Matildas' most dangerous in attack, Raso nodded home Australia's second goal from a corner. She also constantly challenged the Zambia defence with her runs in behind.
Katrina Gorry - 6
As she always does, Gorry put in a tireless shift as she looked to push further forward with late runs into the box. Should have done better with a header in the first half, having ghosted into the box only to blast a lovely Mary Fowler cross over the bar.
Ellie Carpenter - 5
Was found out defensively, Zambia's pace and movement up front caused her issues all game. Looked to get forward when she could as Australia pressed for the win in the second half.
Kyra Cooney-Cross - 7.5
Along with captain Catley, Cooney-Cross was one of Australia's best. She covered just about every blade of grass as she helped the Matildas to a remarkable victory. Looked to link the midfield and attack at every opportunity while also fulfilling her defensive duties.
Mary Fowler - 6.5
Was much more involved as she provided some lovely touches and passes in the final third. Worked hard in the second half as she tracked back to help the Matildas defensively against an always dangerous Zambia attack.
Substitutes (all introduced 57th minute)
Michelle Heyman - 7.5
Scored the winner after latching onto a ball from Catley, sliding her shot expertly past the Zambia goalkeeper. Provided a presence for the Matildas up front and played a crucial role in the comeback win.
Kaitlyn Torpey - 6.5
Provided great energy from the bench as she looked to push forward at every opportunity. Created headaches for an already stretched Zambia defence.
Clare Wheeler - 6
Played a role in helping the Matildas turn the game around in the second half as her energy and tenacity helped spur the team on.
