Despite fans watching Australia score twice and reach the quarterfinals, the biggest cheer on Monday was arguably saved for when Sam Kerr came onto the pitch.
The striker, who missed the entire group stage because of a calf injury, was substituted on in the second half for her first appearance at this World Cup.
“Just relief, honestly, it's been a long three weeks, but yeah, it's amazing,” Kerr told reporters about the feeling she had stepping onto the field.
Interest around Kerr’s injury went into overdrive in recent weeks, with everyone desperate to know if and when she would be able to return to the starting lineup.
Kerr, who was billed as the poster girl of the tournament, said she felt some of the attempts to find out news crossed a line.
At one point, a helicopter was flown over the team's training ground to try and see if Kerr was practicing with the squad.
“I felt a little bit disrespected because it's not about me, it's about the team and they're preparing for a World Cup,” she said.
“At the end of the day, we've been really transparent. I was not training that day […] so yeah, I felt that was actually a little bit disrespectful.
“Now, I'm just back out on the pitch and I feel like it's time to crack on now.”
Despite her absence, Australia has looked impressive at the tournament and will face either France or Morocco in the next round.
Kerr’s return will be an added bonus for the Matildas, who look determined to go deep into this competition.
“The girls are smashing it. So many people are playing great,” Kerr added.
“The momentum is building and, at the moment, I've got to gain some fitness back and get ready for the next game.”
