In a thrilling Group B match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Australian women’s football team came from behind to defeat Zambia 6-5 with a 90th-minute goal at the Nice Stadium on Sunday.

Despite being down 5-2 at one point, the Matildas staged an incredible comeback with a brace from captain Steph Catley (65’, 78’), and goals from Alanna Kennedy (7’), Hayley Raso (35’), Michelle Heyman (90’), and an own goal from Ngambo Musole (58’).

Barbra Banda’s first-half hattrick (1’, 33’, 45’+1) and Racheal Kundananji’s brace (21’, 56’) had given Zambia a commanding lead, but they were unable to hold on, ultimately suffering a heartbreaking loss.

The Matildas, who had lost 3-0 to Germany in their opening match, were rocked by an early goal from Banda. An own goal from Musole gave Australia a glimmer of hope, and Catley’s free-kick in the 65th minute sparked their comeback.

Despite several chances for Banda and Kundananji to extend Zambia’s lead, Australia capitalized on their mistakes, with Catley scoring from the penalty spot to level the score. The frantic contest ended with Heyman’s 90th-minute goal, sealing a remarkable 6-5 victory for the Matildas.