Co-hosts Australia will be without their talismanic captain, Sam Kerr, for next week’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Group B clash against Nigeria.
The Chelsea forward sustained a calf injury in training and missed the Matildas’ opening game against debutants Republic of Ireland.
Kerr has also been ruled out of the Asians’ second group game against the Super Falcons slated for the Brisbane Stadium next week Thursday.
The 29-year-old is in contention to face Olympic champions Canada in the team’s final group game.
Kerr has scored 63 goals in 120 appearances for Australia.