One of the English Premier League's greatest and most popular players has lavished the Matildas with praise after their 4-0 win over Canada - even managing to hug skipper Steph Catley.
Australia had to beat the reigning Olympic champions in order to progress to the knockout stages at their home World Cup; and they did so in style thanks to goals from Hayley Raso (2), Mary Fowler and Catley, who expertly converted her second penalty for the tournament.
Melbourne Rectangular Stadium was buzzing, and the Premier League cult hero, who scored 113 goals from 213 appearances across a brilliant career primarily for Arsenal, was pitch-side to take it all in.