Sam Kerr has hailed the Australian men’s football team after they qualified for this year’s FIFA World Cup in a dramatic fashion. The Socceroos became the penultimate team to book their place in Qatar this winter after beating Peru on penalties in an intercontinental play-off. 

And Chelsea star, Kerr, was one of many Aussie stars to show their appreciation for Graham Arnold’s side. 

Redmayne’s heroics

In the end it was goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne who proved to be the hero for Australia. 

The keeper came on for captain Mat Ryan shortly before the penalty shootout and saved Alex Valera’s spot-kick to seal victory for the Socceroos. 

The decision to bring on Redmayne was surprising at the time, especially given the 33-year-old had only previously won two caps. 

But the Sydney FC keeper is renowned for saving penalties and danced on the line for each of Peru’s spot-kicks. 

Victory means Australia will play in Group D at this year’s World Cup, alongside holders France, Denmark. 

Australia football

Kerr makes dig at doubters

Peru are ranked 20 places above Australia in the world rankings, leading many to consider the South American side as favourites in the build-up to the match. 

Calls for Arnold to be sacked have also intensified in recent months after the Socceroos were forced to qualify the hard way.

Even during the game, some fans questioned why Arnold didn’t turn to his bench earlier, with the score locked at 0-0. 

However, Australia defied the odds to qualify for their fifth World Cup in a row and Arnold’s job seems safe for the time being.

Kerr, who has made more than 100 appearances for the Australian women’s team, tweeted her support to the men’s side and wrote: “Doubters eat your hats, we’re going to the World Cup. @Soceroos well done!!!” 

When is the FIFA World Cup? 

This year’s World Cup will take place in Qatar from November 21st, until December 18th.

It will be the second World Cup to be held entirely in Asia, after the 2002 edition was held in South Korea and Japan. 

Due to Qatar’s intense summer heat, this will be the first World Cup to ever be held outside the months of May, June and July.