Kössler double leads Germany to 4–2 win over Australia

Melissa Kössler scored her first two senior international goals as Germany defeated Australia 4–2 in a women's friendly in Karlsruhe on Friday. According to SPORT1's match report, the striker struck in the 23rd and 30th minutes, giving Christian Wück's side the lead before a second half that ended with three late goals.

Watch the highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rS_gr3tXChc

NDR reported that 26,352 spectators watched the match. Germany's opener came after Carlotta Wamser crossed towards the far post and Franziska Kett won the header, with Kössler applying the final touch. Elisa Senß then supplied the pass for Kössler's second, and the forward beat a defender before shooting past Australia goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold to make it 2–0.

Sam Kerr headed Australia back into the contest in first-half stoppage time, leaving Germany with a 2–1 advantage at the interval. Wück made three changes at the break, including taking off Klara Bühl and Jule Brand. SPORT1 reported that Kössler subsequently had an opportunity to add another goal but could not convert when through on goal.

Australia also threatened an equaliser. NDR's account described Clare Wheeler hitting the underside of the crossbar in the 56th minute after a corner caused problems for Germany's defence. At the other end, Arnold diverted substitute Nicole Anyomi's effort onto a post. Those chances kept the match unresolved before Germany eventually restored their two-goal cushion.

Camilla Küver headed in from Linda Dallmann's corner in the 83rd minute for her first Germany goal. Holly McNamara then reduced Australia's deficit in stoppage time, but Sjoeke Nüsken scored after another corner to complete the 4–2 result. SPORT1 reported that Wück welcomed the victory while expressing frustration that his side had allowed Australia back into the game before half-time.

Germany's next fixture is against Japan in Bremen on Tuesday, October 13, as confirmed by the German Football Association. The federation had identified the Australia and Japan matches as opportunities to develop the team against strong opponents from outside Europe. Kössler, who plays for Denver Summit, entered this international window after Germany had already secured qualification for the 2027 World Cup.