Kerr nearly got a touch in Australia's opening goal, missing with an air-swing kick as Courtney Nevin's free-kick trickled past Wales keeper Safia Middleton-Patel and into the back of the net in the 28th minute.

The game was a stop-start affair in the second half but Wales equalised through Mared Griffiths's chip in the 55th minute.

Australia, however, took the win through Caitlin Foord's 85th minute strike.

Japan, also aiming to lift the AFC Women's Asian Cup trophy in March, came from behind to hold Italy to a 1-1 draw.

The European side took the lead through Giada Greggi in the 53rd minute but Yui Hasegawa ensured Japan walked away with a share of the spoils with her 65th minute strike.

In other friendlies, Hong Kong, China defeated Malaysia 5-0 while Saudi Arabia edged Singapore 1-0.

Photo: Football Australia