Sam Kerr is benched ahead of Matildas' do-or-die clash with Canada

Australia have finally made their call on Sam Kerr ahead of their do-or-die clash with Canada at the World Cup.

The Matildas have been without Kerr, 29, so far this tournament after the Chelsea star injured her calf on the eve of their opening game against Ireland, in a bitter blow for the hosts.

Kerr has insisted that she will play in the final group game against the Maple Leafs, with the nation sweating over her availability after last week's defeat by Nigeria left Australia on the brink of elimination.

The hosts must beat Canada, or draw and hope Ireland can do them a favour against  the Super Falcons, to advance to the last-16.

And coach Tony Gustavsson has made the difficult call regarding Kerr for the huge game in Melbourne.