Matildas' Agony After Gut-Wrenching Penalty Shootout Loss
The Matildas' World Cup dream is over after a barnstorming and heartbreaking 4-1 penalty shootout loss to Norway in Nice.
After Isabell Herlovssen's opener, Elise Kellond-Knight drew Australia level with a stunning 83rd minute equaliser direct for a corner with the scores level at 1-1 at the end of regulation time and extra time in the round of 16 encounter.
The Matildas clung on for spot kicks despite Alanna Kennedy's 104th minute dismissal.
With no winning goals scored, the match was sent to a penalty shootout.
Norway shot out in front in the penalties, with three quick goals to Australia's nil.
Sam Kerr and Emily Gielnik botched their penalties for Australia's worst World Cup result in 16 years.
The fourth goal sent Norway into the quarterfinals.
Captain Sam Kerr told SBS News in her post-match interview that she felt the team might have let some people down with the eleventh-hour loss.
"We have put in a lot of work and some of the girls have sacrificed a lot to be here," Kerr said.
"We will learn from this and we will be stronger ... it's just disappointing to lose in penalties."
With AAP.
Contact Siobhan at skenna@networkten.com.au