Matildas Pledge Dominance in Asia Cup Campaign

Following a turbulent period, the Matildas are poised to assert their dominance in the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Midfielder Katrina Gorry emphasizes the team’s unwavering hunger to succeed after their experiences in recent years. As they look ahead to facing the Philippines on Sunday, Gorry highlights the unity that hardship has fostered within the squad.

Matildas Ready for AFC Women’s Asian Cup

The team has faced significant ups and downs in the aftermath of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The tournament showcased star players like Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler, initiating a wave of enthusiasm known as “Matildas mania” in Australia. The team progressed past Denmark and France but ultimately fell to England in the semi-finals.

Recent Challenges

Since that triumph, the Matildas have struggled to replicate their success. They failed to advance past the group stage at the Paris Olympics and suffered three consecutive defeats against the United States, Colombia, and Japan during the SheBelieves Cup in 2025. This series of poor performances led to the departure of head coach Tony Gustavsson. Joe Montemurro took over in June last year, aiming to restore the team’s former glory.

Injury Troubles

The Matildas have also grappled with injuries to key players. Captain Sam Kerr has participated in only six of the 28 matches since the World Cup due to ongoing calf injuries. However, she is set to lead the team against the Philippines. In a major boost, Mary Fowler is returning from an ACL injury that has kept her sidelined since April of last year.

Looking Forward

As they prepare for this week’s match, Gorry is optimistic about reclaiming their momentum. With the next World Cup in Brazil scheduled for 2027, the Matildas aim to use the Asian Cup as a stepping stone toward future success. Gorry acknowledges the challenges ahead, stating, “No game is going to be easy.”

Growth of Women’s Football

Beyond their performance on the pitch, Gorry expresses pride in witnessing the growth of women’s football in Australia. She emphasizes the increasing engagement of young fans attending matches and the importance of hosting tournaments like the Asian Cup.

The Matildas will take on the Philippines at Perth Stadium this Sunday, marking a crucial step in their quest for Asian Cup dominance.