CNN —Australia striker Sam Kerr, who is the face of this Women’s World Cup, will miss the opening two matches of the tournament after sustaining a calf injury in training. One of the world’s best players, Kerr’s absence is a huge blow to the Matildas who played the Republic of Ireland in their opening World Cup game on Thursday. Kerr racked up five goals in four matches at the 2019 World Cup, including four goals against Jamaica in the group stage. The 2023 edition represents her fourth World Cup, having debuted at the showpiece event in Germany in 2011 as a 17-year-old. Manchester City striker Mary Fowler, who scored the winner in a friendly against France last week, started in Kerr’s place.

---

Persons: Sam Kerr, “, ” Kerr, Kerr, England’s, Mary Fowler, Fowler, Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord Organizations: CNN, Chelsea, Nigeria, Canada, Australia, Jamaica, League, Manchester City, France, Republic of Ireland Locations: Australia, Republic of Ireland, Germany, Kerr’s, Republic of, France