Heavyweights standing between Matildas and World Cup glory

Now that the Matildas have qualified for the knockout stages of the FIFA Women's World Cup after a monster 4-0 win over Canada in their final group stage match, the path towards the title is somewhat clear.

Hayley Raso dominated with a first-half double, with the victory over the Olympic champions sealed by Mary Fowler and Steph Catley's goals in the second half.

But the hard work starts now for the Matildas, who played their third straight match without superstar captain Sam Kerr on Monday night.

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The Matildas will now play the runner-up of Group D, either Denmark or China, who will both play on Tuesday night.

No Kerr, no problem

Denmark faces Haiti, who is yet to chalk up a win. Meantime, China has a tougher ask, facing Group D leaders England.

China currently sits in third but is on equal points with Denmark, but requires a win against England to advance.

Australia's round of 16 clash will take place on August 7 at Sydney's Accor Stadium.

If the Matildas are successful in their first knockout stage clash, they could face football superpowers France, Brazil or Germany in the quarter-finals or semi-finals en route to the World Cup final on August 20.

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