England and Australia win on the day to make World Cup quarterfinals

It’s been a fantastic evening for co-host Australia in Sydney as the team reached the quarterfinals with a comfortable 2-0 victory against Denmark.

On top of that, captain Sam Kerr made her first appearance at the tournament when she came on as a second-half substitute having been sidelined with a calf injury for the opening three games.

“We’re feeling really, really happy, really positive,” Australian defender Clare Hunt told CNN.

“I think, for us, it’s huge to keep a clean sheet and obviously get two goals against a strong defensive unit. They’ve only conceded one goal this tournament, so we’re really, really happy with the result.”

A packed crowd of 75,784 cheered on the home side, providing the kind of support that could lift Australia’s performance later in the tournament.

“I think the Sydney crowd was louder tonight than they were on our initial appearance here at Stadium Australia,” Hunt added. “I think we’re building momentum as a team and as a support system in Australia.”

Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson said of the fan support: “I get emotional. I really do. The support we feel is – wow. Thank you, thank you.”