American World Cup-winning soccer star almost breaks down as she explains the very personal reason she’s ‘rooting for’ the Matildas

American World Cup winning striker Jessica McDonald fought back tears as she explained her personal reasons for supporting the Matildas in their Women’s World Cup semi-final against England.

McDonald, who provides an expert analysis of Optus Sport’s coverage of the tournament, appeared on the Daily Wrap show when she launched into an unexpected and heartfelt monologue about how Australia helped save her career and shape her life.

“It’s hard for me to be unbiased, and I have to get a little personal here,” McDonald said.

“This is a story I haven’t told many people. Thirteen years ago I completely tore my patellar tendon and was told I had no chance of ever playing soccer again.

“In the middle of my recovery, I find out I’m pregnant with my son, so I have two years to recover from two big physical things. All I wanted to do was play football, and that was taken away from me. I didn’t know what I was going to do with my life.

“But when I recovered from both things, I got a second chance to play again, and this country gave me that chance by playing in the W-League for Melbourne Victory.

“This country has given me so many opportunities. Here I am now, working for Optus during the Women’s World Cup, playing for Western United in their first season. This country has helped change my life, so if there’s a team I’m going to support, it’s the Matildas.

‘At the end of the day I feel like an adopted Australian, and this is me showing my appreciation for this country.

‘My love for Australia is next level. I wouldn’t be a World Cup Champion or NWSL Champion without the second chance this country gave me, and the last World Cup I won with Tony G (Gustavsson), so I have to do it with the Matildas. ‘

Fellow McDonald’s Optus commentators, ex-Matildas Ash Sykes and Heather Garriock, responded to the American star’s emotional story with applause.

“And you made sure we’re going to close the show with a few tears again,” said presenter Niav Owens.

“Jess McDonald, that was so lovely, enjoy the game tomorrow night – and we’re thrilled to have you on the panel as our adopted Aussie.”

Both former Matildas also predicted that the Aussie team will get the job done against the Lionesses.

McDonald was given a second chance in her football career thanks to the opportunities she was given in Australia after being told she would never play the sport again

The American star (pictured with her son) revealed that she hadn’t told many people the emotional story behind her love for Australia

“I think we’re looking for another zero from Matildas,” Sykes said.

“We’ve never kept consecutive clean sheets, but I think we can do it, so Australia 2-0.”

The Matildas face England at Stadium Australia in Sydney on Wednesday evening, with the winner taking on Spain in the final on Sunday.