VALENCIENNES, France (AFP) — Barbara Bonansea ensured Italy a dramatic return to the women’s World Cup after a 20-year absence yesterday, with a stoppage time winner that gave her team a last-gasp win over tournament dark horses Australia.

Juventus’ Bonansea popped up at the back post to head home the winner, having already levelled for the dogged Italians.

The Australians, tipped by many to have a big impact in France, had taken a first-half lead through hotshot Sam Kerr.

The win puts Italy in a great position to qualify from Group C ahead of their next match with unfancied Jamaica, who lost 0-3 to Brazil in yesterday’s other Group C game.

“What can I say, it’s incredible, and scoring with my head as well, which never happens with me,” said Bonansea, who had scored Italy’s first two World Cup goals in two decades.

“It’s so wonderful. I hope we can qualify for the knockout stage because these two goals are meant to help us do just that.”

Bonansea was close to a hat-trick. Her eighth-minute strike was ruled out for the tightest of offsides following a long check via the video assistant referee (VAR) system, the first of two Italy goals scrubbed off for offside.

The Aussies quickly picked up the pace and were soon in front through their star Kerr, who was clumsily brought down by the otherwise excellent Sara Gama in the 21st minute.

The 25-year-old Kerr’s spot kick was brilliantly saved by Laura Giuliani but the goalkeeper could only push the ball back out to Kerr, who slammed home the rebound.

Chloe Largazo then wasted two good headed chances to double Australia’s lead before half-time, and those missed chances — among others —allowed Bonansea to drag Italy back.

The 27-year-old pounced on a dreadful first touch from Clare Polkinghorne to race through and level with a smart finish past Aussie stopper Lydia Williams.

After that the well-organised Italians slowly squeezed the life out of their opponents.

Italy thought their chance to snatch the points had gone when Daniela Sabatino’s slotted finish was ruled out for offside with nine minutes remaining, but Bonansea stepped up to make their return to the World Cup an ecstatic one.

England opened their World Cup campaign with a Group D derby against Scotland in the day’s late game.