The coach of Iran’s women’s soccer team has revealed she loves Sam Kerr so much that she even voted for the star Matilda in FIFA’s Women’s World Player of the Year award.
Kerr came off the bench to score the sealer in Australia’s rusty 2-0 Olympic qualifying win over Iran in Perth on Thursday night.
The final scoreline was considered somewhat of a win for world No.63 Iran, who were widely tipped to be pummelled by at least four goals despite the Matildas fielding a second-string XI.
Iran were under intense pressure all game, and the introduction of Kerr, Mary Fowler and Steph Catley in the 65th minute ramped things up even more.
Kerr scored a 78th-minute goal to send her hometown crowd of 18,798 fans wild.
After the match, Iran coach Maryam Azmoon revealed her admiration for the Matildas skipper.
“If I have to be honest with you, we have only seen these players on the TV and we know that they are very strong,” Azmoon said.
“When I voted for the best women’s player on the FIFA website, I have voted for Sam Kerr. I really love her.
“I told my players it must be an honour to play against them, but please do not feel afraid of them and do your best.
“I think my players didn’t feel afraid of them.”
Australia enjoyed 79 per cent possession during the match, and also dominated the shot count (25-2), corner count (19-0) and passes (657-189).
Azmoon said she was proud of her team’s efforts, and hopes for more matches against higher-ranked nations.
“I really don’t feel afraid if my team loses,” Azmoon said.
“Playing against strong teams makes us stronger. After playing with Australia, I think we will be stronger.
“What has happened now in the dressing rooms, the players said they wished they had tried more and had more correct passes.
“Their goal was to defend first. They wished they could have done some attack and not be focused on defence only. Maybe we could have scored a goal.”
The Matildas will be back in action on Sunday when they take on group leaders the Philippines at a sold-out Optus Stadium.
The Philippines opened their campaign with a thumping 4-1 win over Taiwan.
It means Australia must beat the world No.44 Philippines in order to be in the box seat to top the group and advance to the next stage of qualifying.
Iran will face Taiwan as part of Sunday’s double header.
