Australia were forced to settle for second place in their Women's Asian Cup group after a frantic 3-3 draw with South Korea on Sunday night. A stoppage-time header from Alanna Kennedy rescued a point for the Matildas, who had led 2-1 at half-time but conceded two quick goals after the break.
Kennedy had earlier equalised in the 31st minute after Mun Eun-ju gave South Korea an early lead. Sam Kerr then put Australia ahead in first-half stoppage time, but a penalty from Kim Shin-ji and a strike from Kang Chae-rim turned the match in Korea's favour. Kennedy struck again in the 97th minute, converting a cut-back from Kerr to spark jubilant scenes among the record crowd of 60,279 at Stadium Australia.
Australia made five changes from their previous win over Iran, including a first start for goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold. Steph Catley was substituted early due to concussion protocols after being struck by the ball. Despite dominating possession, the Matildas struggled with fatigue and disconnection, with Caitlin Foord and Katrina Gorry having off nights.
Coach Joe Montemurro made late substitutions to try to regain control, but it was Kennedy's late heroics that saved Australia from defeat. The result means Australia finish second in Group A, setting up a potentially tougher path to the semi-finals.
