The Matildas put the rest of the tournament on notice with a clinical 4-0 victory over Canada in the Women's World Cup in Melbourne.

The Matildas have put on a clinical performance to smash Olympic champions Canada 4-0 in the Women’s World Cup.

Hayley Raso scored the opening two goals in the first half, while another Mary Fowler goal was ruled out for offside, before Fowler got her reward with a second-half strike.

Captain Steph Catley sealed the win from the penalty spot in the dying minutes.

The victory means Australia will top its group, after Nigeria and Ireland drew in their clash in Brisbane.

Importantly, star striker Samantha Kerr, who sat on the bench, was not needed in the match, giving her extra time to rest her troublesome calf.

The Matildas will face the second-placed team in Group D in Sydney on Monday, August 7, with England, Denmark and China all possible opponents.