Tameka Butt’s second-half strike has given the Matildas a first-ever victory over women’s soccer powerhouse the United States.
Australia took it up to the world champions and were richly rewarded in their meeting at the Tournament of Nations on Friday (AEST).
One of Australian sport’s longest hoodoos was ended by the Matildas’ vibrant and cohesive display in Seattle.
Butt scored the only goal of the game in the 67th minute.
Emily Van Egmond flicked a ball over the American defence to the waiting Butt, who steadied and lashed the ball past Alyssa Naeher from short-range.
The landmark result ends the USA’s long domination over Australia in women’s soccer.
Not in 27 previous meetings had the Matildas beaten the US, and not in 12 years had Australia even drawn.
But the effervescent display will have Alen Stajcic’s side dreaming of bigger things at next year’s Asian Cup and the 2019 World Cup.
Katrina Gorry was bright in midfield, Sam Kerr took it up to the American defence and Caitlin Foord was busy.
Alanna Kennedy’s strong defensive marshalling ensured the Matildas could field a back three with confidence against the world No.1 side.
Lydia Williams was immense in the Australian goal.
On 11 minutes, she denied in-form veteran Megan Rapinoe with a one-handed stop at the near post, following that effort up with two strong saves to deny substitute Carli Lloyd.
But her finest moment came with five minutes remaining when she produced a one-on-one save to stop Crystal Dunn with a trailing leg.
The hosts finished the stronger as they desperately sought an equaliser.
It never came, putting Australia on top of the standings after the opening day of the US-based friendly tournament.
The earlier match between Japan and Brazil — the Matildas’ next opponents — finished 1-1.
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Roar Rookie
i’m surprised this site did not over this morning’s game considering no other media did apart from fox sports
Bondy
Guest
Good on the girls it was a good match to watch too, that win against the Yanks will do their confidence the wonders .. FFA Cup next Tuesday 7.00 pm Fox sports, can't wait ...
Wayne
Roar Guru
Putting a good squad together with a lot of younger players not far from selection
Nemesis
Guest
This is real & meaningful achievement in sport. It's not Mickey Mouse achievement based on TV ratings that seems to titillate the ignorant Australian sports watcher. This is sporting achievement that's based on competing against the world's best competitor, on their home turf, and prevailing.
Neil
Guest
This is so good.
Waz
Guest
I was working so didn't see the game but man what a great result ?
Ken Spacey
Guest
A deserved win they've worked hard for over many years.
Minz
Guest
Yeeeeees! Matildas!
Lionheart
Guest
Great result for our girls who just give it their all. Great game, deserved winners.
Newie
Guest
Amazing! What a game and incredible strikes! Williams player of the match? We'll see you on 19 September in Newcastle.
punter
Guest
Great result!!!!
DaniE
Roar Guru
A good game. A good, goood game. The first 15 minutes was a worry, but then the US lost focus and the Matildas' grew in confidence. Williams in the goal produced highlight saves. We showed more attacking intent through the body of the game but our tight defense when the US began to frantically attack at the back end was super.