Matildas stars return to squad for friendlies as Joe Montemurro builds to 2027 World Cup
Joe Montemurro has selected a 22‑player squad for the Matildas’ upcoming friendlies in Kenya, with Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord leading the side. The matches against Malawi and either India or Kenya are part of a strategy to expose the team to higher‑quality opposition as they build toward the 2027 W…
The Australian Women’s National Team, known as the Matildas, have announced a 22‑player squad for a pair of international friendlies in Kenya later this month. Head coach Joe Montemurro has chosen the lineup with the aim of preparing the side for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, placing a premium on playing against higher‑ranking opponents to test the squad’s readiness.
Building for the 2027 World Cup
Montemurro’s selection reflects a deliberate strategy to maintain consistency after the team’s recent disappointment in the Women’s Asian Cup final, where Australia fell 1‑0 to Japan. The coach emphasized that the Asian Cup experience had set a benchmark, exposing the squad to top‑tier competition. “We need to play against the best to understand what we’re up against,” Montemurro said. “The next camp will involve African teams, but we still have to prepare for the top 10 and 15 nations leading into the World Cup.”
In line with this approach, the Matildas will face Malawi, ranked 153rd globally, in their opening match on 11 April in Nairobi. The second fixture, scheduled for 15 April, will pit Australia against either India (ranked 67th) or the host nation Kenya (ranked 134th). These games are intended to expose the players to different styles of play and to test the squad’s adaptability under varying conditions.
Key Players and Notable Absences
Captain Sam Kerr will lead a near full‑strength lineup, alongside stalwarts Caitlin Foord, Steph Catley, Hayley Raso, Alanna Kennedy, and Mackenzie Arnold. The squad also includes Melbourne City midfielder Leticia McKenna, who receives her first senior call‑up, and defender Jessika Nash and midfielder Isabel Gomez, both returning after missing the Asian Cup.
Several high‑profile players will be absent from the friendlies. Mary Fowler, the prolific striker, will sit out to recover from an ACL injury and to manage her workload after a heavy minutes load in the Asian Cup. Right‑back Ellie Carpenter and midfielder Katrina Gorry are also omitted, with the coach citing the need to give other players a chance to step up. Kyra Cooney‑Cross is unavailable due to personal reasons.
Squad Composition and Tactical Intentions
Montemurro’s squad list includes a mix of experienced internationals and emerging talent. The selection showcases depth across all positions, with a balance of seasoned campaigners and younger prospects. The coach’s focus on “high‑quality, top‑ranked” opposition is reflected in the decision to field a team capable of competing against diverse playing styles.
By rotating the lineup and giving opportunities to players who were not part of the Asian Cup squad, Montemurro aims to build cohesion and to identify the best combinations for the World Cup campaign. The friendlies will serve as a testing ground for tactical adjustments, set‑piece routines, and the integration of new players into the national setup.
Upcoming Matches and Logistics
The first match against Malawi is scheduled for 2 pm local time on 11 April, which corresponds to 9 pm Australian Eastern Standard Time. The second game will take place on 15 April, with the opponent to be confirmed between India and Kenya. Both fixtures will be played in Nairobi, providing the team with exposure to African football culture and conditions.
For fans and supporters, the friendlies represent an opportunity to witness the Matildas in action as they fine‑tune their strategies ahead of the World Cup. The matches are also a chance for the coaching staff to assess player fitness, morale, and tactical adaptability in a competitive environment.
What’s Next for the Matildas?
Following the Kenyan friendlies, the Matildas will enter a period of intensified training and preparation for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. The coaching staff will analyze performance data from the matches, adjust training regimens, and continue to build squad depth. The team’s journey will be closely followed by supporters and analysts alike, as Australia looks to build on its recent successes and to challenge for global glory.
While the friendlies provide a platform for experimentation, the ultimate goal remains clear: to assemble a cohesive, resilient, and world‑class squad capable of competing at the highest level in 2027.
Why It Matters
These friendlies are a critical step in Australia’s path to the 2027 Women’s World Cup, offering valuable match experience against diverse opponents and helping to shape the team’s tactical identity.
Key Takeaways
- Joe Montemurro has named a 22‑player squad for friendlies in Kenya.
- Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord will lead the side in the upcoming matches.
- Key absences include Mary Fowler, Ellie Carpenter, and Katrina Gorry.
- Matches will be against Malawi, and either India or Kenya.
- The friendlies aim to expose the team to high‑quality opposition ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
- Leticia McKenna receives her first senior call‑up.
FAQ
- When are the friendlies scheduled? The first match is on 11 April, and the second on 15 April.
- Who will Australia play in the second fixture? The opponent will be either India or Kenya.
- Why are Mary Fowler and Ellie Carpenter not in the squad? They are resting to manage workload and recover from injury.
- What is the main goal of these matches? To prepare the team for the 2027 Women’s World Cup by facing higher‑ranked opponents.
Why it matters
The friendlies provide the Matildas with essential match practice against varied playing styles, helping to fine‑tune tactics and squad selection ahead of the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Key points
- Joe Montemurro names 22‑player squad for Kenya friendlies
- Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord lead the lineup
- Key players Mary Fowler, Ellie Carpenter, Katrina Gorry omitted
- Matches against Malawi and either India or Kenya
- Friendlies aimed at preparing for 2027 World Cup
- Leticia McKenna earns first senior call‑up
Frequently asked questions
When are the friendlies scheduled?
The first match is on 11 April, and the second on 15 April.
Who will Australia play in the second fixture?
The opponent will be either India or Kenya.
Why are Mary Fowler and Ellie Carpenter not in the squad?
They are resting to manage workload and recover from injury.
What is the main goal of these matches?
To prepare the team for the 2027 Women’s World Cup by facing higher‑ranked opponents.
