Matildas star receives rousing welcome in return after mother's death

Arsenal midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross, star of the Matildas women's national team, received a lively welcome back following her return to preseason play after her mother's passing. Her mother, Jessica Cooney, had battled terminal bile duct cancer and passed away on July 10. Jessica was the biggest inspiration in Kyra's life, a sentiment she expressed on social media after her mother's death.

Kyra, who plays for Arsenal and the Matildas, returned to the team's training on August 17, five months after taking time off to be with her ailing mother. She returned to action in the 63rd minute of Arsenal's recent pre-season match against Paris FC, contributing to the team's 1-0 victory. Kyra's return comes after Arsenal granted her indefinite compassionate leave to be with her mother over the summer.

Cooney-Cross's performance was met with a rousing ovation from the crowd at Meadow Park, where she was substituted on alongside teammate Steph Catley. The match was part of Arsenal's pre-season preparations for the Women's Super League, which begins on Sunday evening against Brighton & Hove Albion.