Kerr lashes in one of the World Cup's best goals with 25-metre wonder strike

Sam Kerr  scored an absolute stunner to keep Australia's World Cup hopes alive as the Matildas drew level in the semi-final against England.

Making her first start of the tournament after overcoming the calf injury that had limited her to just 75 minutes of football so far at the World Cup, the Matildas skipper delivered when her country needed her most.

With just over an hour played and Australia trailing 1-0 to Ella Toone's brilliant first half goal, the Kerr seized the moment.

With Lionesses defence backpedaling, the Chelsea forward gained possession into England's half and ran at Millie Bright before unleashing a pile driver from 30metres out which swerved and dipped past Mary Earps.

'Unreal. Best in the world,' former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright tweeted in response to Kerr's stunning finish.

Kerr's first goal of the tournament was her sixth World Cup and her 64th overall for the Matildas.

Minutes later, the 29-year-old looked threatening again as she cut into the box from the left only for effort to be deflected behind by a brilliant last-ditch tackle from Jessica Carter.

The Matildas' joy, however, was short-lived as Lauren Hemp restored England's lead six minutes later after pouncing on a mistake from Ellie Carpenter.