Sam Kerr v Marta: Opta Stats comparison

The Westfield Matildas completed a cleansweep of their two-game home friendly series against Brazil with impressive wins in Penrith and Newcastle.

Striker Sam Kerr was superb for the Westfield Matildas, while Brazil’s five-time FIFA Women’s Player of the Year Marta lead the way for the visitors.

Stajcic's warriors fill us all with hope

But who was the star performer between the two superstars of the women’s game?

We’ve crunched the Opta stats to find out.

GOALS AND CHANCES

Kerr continued her hot-streak of form in front of goal in this series, finishing with three from the two matches from just three shots on target.

Marta’s only goal came via the penalty spot late in game two, although she set up Fabiana’s opener in the 3-2 loss in Newcastle.

The Samba star created four chances for team-mates in the two matches, compared to three by Kerr

Stats screenshot

SHOTS

For someone as red-hot and confident as Kerr is right now, it’s no surprise she fired off more shots at goal then Marta.

Analysis: why Matildas can win next World Cup

Kerr had eight efforts at goal with three hitting the target, while Marta only had three shots, with two of those forcing a save from Lydia Williams.

All but one of Kerr’s shots came from inside the box.

Sam Kerr celebrates a goal for the Westfield Matildas.

PASSING

Kerr just edged out the Brazilian veteran when it came to most passes, attempting 59 over the two matches compared to Marta’s 56.

But it was Marta who enjoyed the better accuracy, edging out Kerr 79% to 71%.

And Marta also lead the way when it came to crosses, sending over six to Kerr’s three, although the Westfield Matildas star plays a more central role.

TACKLES AND FOULS

Marta didn’t shirk her defensive duties, making five tackles compared to one by Kerr.

The Brazil star also won the most fouls, earning six free-kicks for her team, while Kerr managed to win two fouls.

Kerr was also involved in 17 one-on-one duels over the two matches, compared to 29 for Marta.

mat10