Matildas Overpower Haiti 7-1 in World Cup Tune-Up

Australia's Matildas defeated Haiti 7-1 in a FIFA Women's World Cup warm-up match in Chambly, France, on Tuesday (Wednesday AEDT), according to reporting by juneesoutherncross.com.au and other Australian Community Media outlets. Midfielder Leticia McKenna scored twice in the first half, opening the scoring after just 80 seconds and restoring Australia's lead on the stroke of halftime. Haiti briefly equalised through midfield star Melchie Dumornay, who tucked the ball into the bottom right corner shortly after the opener. An own goal by Haiti defender Kethna Louis in the 53rd minute, followed by strikes from Caitlin Foord, Daniela Galic, Clare Wheeler and Holly McNamara, completed the scoreline. The report noted Australia's first-half defence looked timid against Haiti's counterattack, but the Caribbean side's resistance faded in the second half. Captain Sam Kerr played despite ankle soreness and was influential in two goals. The result follows Australia's 4-2 loss to Germany earlier in the window. Coach Joe Montemurro, asked if his team was ready for next year's World Cup, laughed and said "no," citing the need to finalise a growing squad. Australia held their No.15 world ranking.