In a mesmerizing spectacle that captured the hearts of fans worldwide, Australian soccer prodigy Sam Kerr etched her name into World Cup history during a semifinal clash with England.

The 29-year-old forward, hailed as one of soccer's premier strikers, is a beloved figure in her native Australia. This Wednesday marked a defining moment for her, as she magnificently found the back of the net for The Matildas in the 63rd minute of the World Cup semifinal against England. With this breathtaking goal, she ignited a renewed vigor within the Australian team.

Regrettably, the elation experienced by Kerr and her compatriots was fleeting. Merely minutes later, a defensive lapse allowed England to regain the lead through a goal by Lauren Hemp. The Lionesses further compounded the blow, securing a 3-1 victory with an 85th-minute clincher.

Following the showdown, Kerr has voiced her demand for increased funding for the Australian team. This comes as their dreams of seizing victory on their own turf were abruptly shattered.

"I can only speak for the Matildas but we need funding in our development, we need funding in our grassroots," Kerr addressed the press at Stadium Australia.

"We need funding, you know, we need funding everywhere."