SYDNEY, March 5 (Xinhua) -- Alanna Kennedy bagged a brace as Australia advanced to the AFC Women's Asian Cup quarterfinals after a 4-0 win over Iran at Gold Coast Stadium on Thursday.

After a plodding 1-0 opening win over the Philippines, Australia put the foot to the pedal and was much cleaner in its attacking half.

The result means Australia and fellow unbeaten side South Korea have qualified for the last eight, with both teams set to face off on Sunday as they tussle for top spot in Group A.

Amy Sayer opened the scoring in the eighth minute after her curling strike swung past goalkeeper Maryam Yektaei, before Mary Fowler poked the ball over the line in the 27th minute.

Australia's momentum was unstoppable with Kennedy firing a bullet into the left-hand corner in the 35th minute. The scoreline could have been worse for Iran were it not for the valiant efforts of Yektaei, who pulled off several sensational saves.

Kennedy added her second early in the second half when she flew high and headed into the left-hand corner to finish off a superb set play.

Iran will face the Philippines on Sunday. ■