Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Australia’s renowned striker Sam Kerr marked her comeback to Chelsea’s starting lineup with a remarkable brace in a decisive 6-0 victory over St Polten in Austria. This match, part of the Women’s Champions League, signified her first start in nearly two years—specifically 692 days since her last full game. It was also a milestone, as she completed a full 90 minutes post recovery from a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained in January 2024.
The journey to recovery was extensive for the 32-year-old forward. Following her ACL tear, Kerr underwent surgery and an intensive rehab regimen that sidelined her for months. She made her long-awaited return to the field in September 2025, but manager Emma Hayes carefully managed her comeback with substitute appearances. Tuesday’s start was a crucial milestone in her return, and she did not disappoint with two expertly executed goals in the later stages of the match.
Despite starting the match with vigor, Kerr faced difficulties early on, missing some opportunities and having a goal disallowed for offside. However, as the match progressed, she regained her form. In the second half, her characteristic poise and clinical finishing shone through as she scored twice to help Chelsea to an impressive 6-0 triumph. Her performance was a powerful reminder of her status as one of the elite strikers in global football.
Post-match, Kerr expressed her joy at returning to high-level football, stating, “I'm just happy to be out here playing in the Champions League again, with an amazing team. I'm relishing every moment,” she shared with Disney Plus. She acknowledged that regaining full match fitness was a challenge, saying, “It felt like I had to work myself into it, but yeah, happy to score. When you come on for 20 minutes it’s a bit hectic, so this was nice.”
Chelsea’s commanding win over St Polten highlighted their superiority as one of Europe’s premier women’s teams. The London club displayed total dominance, netting six goals without reply. This victory reinforces their standing in the Champions League group stage as they strive for the elusive European trophy they have yet to secure. Manager Emma Hayes lauded the team’s intensity and focus, singling out Kerr’s performance as a major highlight.
On a broader scale, Kerr’s successful return is promising for the Australian national team, as the Matildas gear up for the Women’s Asian Cup in March. Once again leading as captain, her presence is anticipated to be pivotal as Australia aims for the championship title on home soil.
Kerr’s year has had its share of challenges. Earlier in 2025, she faced legal issues in London but was exonerated of racially abusing a police officer, enabling her to refocus on her football career. She has since played friendlies for the Matildas against England and Wales, with her resilience and positivity earning her admiration from fans and teammates alike.
Feeling poised for the next chapter of her career, Kerr remarked, “Getting some good minutes in the national team was a good setup. I’m definitely fit enough—it’s just about getting more miles in the legs now. I feel 100% but I was out for a while, so I have to build myself up.” Her comments echo the determination that has always characterized her game.
Kerr now turns her attention to domestic play as Chelsea gets set to face Liverpool in the Women’s Super League on Sunday. The upcoming match offers her another opportunity to maintain her scoring streak and contribute to Chelsea's strong league performance. Fans are eager to see how she builds on this confidence-boosting European endeavor.
Sam Kerr’s exceptional comeback is not merely a sporting narrative—it's a potent story of resilience and dedication to the sport. After nearly two years away from the starting lineup, she returned stronger, sharper, and resolved. Her two-goal display against St Polten attests to her prowess as one of the most formidable forwards in world football. As she regains her rhythm with Chelsea and prepares to lead Australia again, Kerr’s journey embodies the spirit of resilience in sports.
English
