Australia claim perfect start in Women's World Cup 2023 campaign with 1-0 victory over Ireland

Both the co-hosts secure victory in their opening matches

FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 co-hosts Australia clawed to a tense 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland thanks to Steph Catley's second-half penalty conversion.

Sam Kerr, the captain of Australia, was absent because it was known prior to the game that the striker would miss at least the first two games of their group stage due to a calf injury.

The Irish team received a lift from their less-than-ideal training just in time for their initial World Cup finals appearance, and it needed Catley's penalty kick to decide the outcome when Marissa Sheva disrupted Hayley Raso.

In the lack of Kerr, Australia missed an attacking edge and a distinct focal point, and Catley's pass from 12 yards was forceful (52), striking the top right side of Courtney Brosnan's goal. The custodian was otherwise left unworked.

With more than 75,000 spectators cheering the Matildas on to victory, Vera Pauw's team demonstrated promise, were tough and tenacious, and were excellently led by all-action Katie McCabe.

However, they were powerless to overcome Australia's determination in Sydney.

The group round has started and will last for two weeks, ending on August 3. The round of 16, which will occur from August 5 to August 8, is where group winners and runners-up advance.

The quarterfinals are set on August 11 and 12, and they will take place in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney.