Matildas interim coach Tom Sermanni wants the Matildas “performing at the level required” after naming his star-studded squad for two home fixtures against Korea in the wake of the poor showing at the SheBelieves Cup in February.
Injured star Sam Kerr remains sidelined having failed to return for Chelsea in two fixtures across the weekend, but her team did topple fellow Matildas star Mary Fowler’s Manchester City overnight.
Fowler was included in the 23-player squad, with midfielder Clare Wheeler set to make a return to the squad after being absent for the last two international windows due to injury.
Young defenders Courtney Nevin and Jamilla Rankin have both earnt recalls off the back of their recent club form in Europe, with Steph Catley to again wear the captain’s armband.
Mary Fowler has been named in the Matildas squad. Picture: Oli Scarff / AFPSource: AFP
The clashes with Korea in first Newcastle and then Sydney next week loom as crucial in preparation for the 2026 Asian Cup after a failure against rivals Japan in the February tournament in the US.
“This squad selection is about achieving the right balance – reintegrating players returning from injury and rewarding those who have been playing consistently well in clubland. It’s important to create continuity while also bringing in players who have earned their place through strong performances,” Sermanni explained.
Sam Kerr is yet to return for Chelsea. Picture: Leon Neal/Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images
“We are fortunate to have a core group of players competing at the highest levels, whether it’s in the UEFA Women’s Champions League or major domestic competitions.
“Every match leading into the Asian Cup is an opportunity to finetune our approach, build cohesion, and ensure we are performing at the level required to take on Asia’s best during next year’s tournament.”
Kerr has not played for the Matildas since 2023 after suffering an ACL injury.
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor confirmed that Kerr would not play for the team leading up to the international break and was unavailable to play for the Matildas.
“We will assess her on a week-by-week basis, and hopefully, after the international break, we will have a clearer understanding of her return,” Bompastor said.
Kerr injured her knee at a Chelsea training camp in January, 2024.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Tegan Micah, Mackenzie Arnold, Chloe Lincoln
Mary Fowler has defended the Matildas’ Paris preparations following their Olympic flop earlier this month.
Coming off fourth-placed results at both the Tokyo 2021 Olympics and the 2023 World Cup on home soil, members of the popular Australian team spoke publicly of their medal hopes in France.
It loomed as a tough task, however, after the Matildas were drawn with powerhouse the United States, world No. 4 Germany and Zambia in Group B.
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A wild 6-5 win over Zambia, along with defeats to America and Germany — the eventual gold and bronze medallists respectively — raised serious questions over Australia’s commitment to the cause amid suggestions the team was too “pampered”.
Football Australia chief executive James Johnson hit back hard at those assertions after the Matildas were knocked out in the first round.
The United States beat Australia in their Group B clash. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“This narrative of pampering is very disappointing to hear,” he said.
“We’re very proud of the environment that we’ve set up for the Matildas, they’re not being pampered, they’re being treated like professionals.”
Fowler attended a press conference in Perth on Tuesday ahead of her club side Manchester City’s appearance in the International Football Cup alongside West Ham, Leicester City and Paris Saint-Germain.
And the 21-year-old was bombarded with questions about Australia’s disappointing Olympic campaign.
“I think we definitely worked as hard as we could to prepare for the tournament,” Fowler said. “I think sometimes football just doesn’t go your way.
“Being at home and having that home advantage, it’s very different playing a home World Cup (compared) to being overseas.
Australia’s lone victory at the Olympics came against Zambia. (Photo by Valery HACHE / AFP)Source: AFP
“Sometimes things don’t go your way and we definitely reflect on that as a team and I’m sure the girls have done that individually as well.”
The results dropped Australia three places to 15th in the FIFA rankings and also ended Tony Gustavsson’s four-year run as Matildas coach.
Football Australia said it would take time appointing Gustavsson’s successor and Fowler had little insight to offer when asked about the coaching situation.
“I actually don’t know,” she said. “I haven’t really paid much thought to it.
“I’m very focused on just what I can control and what I do as a player.
“I feel we all really want to win something with the national team.
“Having another opportunity to do that, I think a lot of us will work for the next year and a bit to try and get it done.”
Fowler is representing Manchester City in Perth this week. (Photo by Ryan Hiscott/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
The Matildas have another huge opportunity to secure some silverware when Australia hosts the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup.
That tournament also serves as the final qualifying stage for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
Asked if the issues with the Matildas in Paris were more technical or psychological, Fowler said there was plenty to learn heading into future games for the national side.
“It was probably a bit of both,” she said. “From a personal level, I definitely reflected on how I was mentally.
“It was a different kind of pressure than I’ve dealt with before.
“(But) it’s kind of nice to have those experiences and know that next time when you get into that same situation, you will be able to deal with it better.”
Manchester City open the Football Cup against Leicester City at HBF Park on Wednesday night, with West Ham taking on PSG the following night before a double-header on Sunday.
The Asian Cup has ended and the Socceroos are back at their clubs – although for some of them, the January transfer window saw them secure major transfers.
Now, Socceroos coach Graham Arnold can turn his full focus to World Cup qualification, with the Aussies resuming their road to the 2026 tournament next month.
Here’s the situation for every Socceroo – and a couple of other guns who are knocking down the door for international selection.
This mega Roo Radar begins with Socceroos who featured in the Asian Cup squad sorted by position, before including a number of other notable names.
The Socceroos skipper recovered from a fractured cheekbone in time to play in all five of the Socceroos’ Asian Cup games and was a calming presence throughout.
With Ryan between the sticks the Socceroos conceded just three goals all tournament long, one of which was a penalty and another an unstoppable free-kick from South Korean star Son Heung-Min.
Ryan kept up his trend of clean sheets in his first game back for AZ Alkmaar as they drew 0-0 with Almere City.
Ryan needed to wear a face mask for some Asian Cup games after surgery on a fractured cheekbone.Source: Getty Images
Joe Gauci
Gauci travelled to Qatar as the clear back-up to Ryan but he did earn a start in the final warm-up match against Bahrain which the Socceroos won 2-0.
Despite not playing, Gauci generated plenty of headlines in Australian football after he completed a switch from Adelaide United to Premier League outfit Aston Villa for up to $2.5m
Emi Martinez, the latest recipient of the Yashin Troph for the best goalkeeper in the world, is Villa’s clear number one as Gauci will compete with Swedish veteran Robin Olsen for the back-up role.
Gauci has already been heavily involved at the Birmingham outfit and was a part of the warm-up drills prior to his new side’s fixture against Manchester United at Villa Park.
The 23-year-old has also been registered in Villa’s squad for the remainder of the Europa Conference League.
Could we see Gauci in the Premier League this season?Source: Getty Images
Lawrence Thomas
Although Thomas didn’t see a single minute of action for the Socceroos, he was thrust straight back into action for the Western Sydney Wanderers.
Thomas was included in the Wanderers’ extended squad for the fixture against Macarthur on February 4 but came on at halftime in place of Daniel Margush.
Unfortunately for Thomas, there was little he could do to prevent Valere Germain’s winner in the 93rd minute as Macarthur sealed a highly controversial 4-3 victory that sparked a furious rant from Wanderers boss Marko Rudan in his post-match press conference.
DEFENDERS
Nathaniel Atkinson
The 24-year-old right back made three Asian Cup appearances for the Socceroos, but faces a tough task to regain his place in the starting XI for Scottish side Heart of Midlothian. Hearts signed 20-year-old Jamaican talent Dexter Lembisika on loan from Premier League side Wolves in mid-January, and he’s impressed in six appearances since the move. Atkinson came off the bench to replace Lembisika in a Cup game on the weekend but will be desperate to earn his place back in the starting side.
Aziz Behich
33-year-old Behich sealed a massive loan move to Saudi club Al-Nassr – joining the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo – after playing every minute of the Socceroos’ five Asian Cup matches at left back. He debuted in an Asian Champions League clash, playing the full 90 minutes, in a promising sign he’ll be in the starting XI for the Saudi giants for the remainder of the season.
Behich in the yellow and blue of Al-Nassr.Source: Getty Images
Jordy Bos
The supremely talented 21-year-old locked down the left wing-back role at Belgian club Westerlo this season after joining from Melbourne City last July (for a fee that was at the time the Australian record). Since returning from the Asian Cup, where he made five appearances (three starts) and scored a goal off the bench against India, he’s immediately regained his starting spot at club level.
Socceroos coach Graham Arnold prefers to use him as a left winger, but Bos has typically been used as a fullback by Westerlo who sit 11th in the Belgian Pro League.
Cameron Burgess
The Scottish-born 28-year-old is right back in English Championship team Ipswich Town’s starting XI after returning from the Asian Cup, where he started one game and came off the bench in the quarter-final defeat.
Ipswich sit fourth in the Championship with a game in hand as they chase promotion to the Premier League, and Burgess looks set to add to his 24 league appearances already this season – remarkably, he has never been substituted in those matches.
He plays alongside Aussie midfielder Massimo Luongo, who turned down an Asian Cup call-up and retired from international duty to focus on the club’s promotion push.
Thomas Deng
The 26-year-old didn’t get onto the field in the Asian Cup – and hasn’t played for the Socceroos since March last year – but he’ll be eagerly anticipating the start of the new J-League season next weekend. The versatile centre-back started most matches for Japanese top-flight club Albirex Niigata last season as they finished tenth, and he’ll hope to retain his role this time around.
Gethin Jones
The 28-year-old is back in the starting line-up at League One club Bolton Wanderers after three starts for the ‘Roos in Qatar – and he’s even worn the captain’s armband in both games since his return. And this week, the right-back scored his first league goal of the season with a looping set-piece header in a 2-1 win for the third-placed side. With games in hand, Bolton are well in contention for automatic promotion that would see Jones reach England’s second tier.
Lewis Miller
The 23-year-old right back played less than 50 minutes across two Asian Cup games, but he’s another Aussie to return straight to the starting line-up at club level. Miller made his 16th start of the Scottish Premiership season (plus one bench appearance) in Hibernian’s 2-1 defeat to heavyweights Celtic, then backed up on the weekend with another start in a cup win.
All up, he’s played 41 times for Hibs since joining in July 2022, and shows plenty of promise as a long-term Socceroos prospect despite struggling in the Asian Cup.
Kye Rowles
Rowles started every single league game for Hearts (in Scotland) before the Asian Cup, and came right back into the side in a cup win on the weekend. The 25-year-old was a standout in the Asian Cup, playing every minute in four of the five matches, and is contracted with Hearts until 2028 – showing just how much they value the cool, calm, and collected centre-back.
Harry Souttar
Souttar is in a dire position at his Championship club Leicester, with the 200cm centre-back in virtual exile. He’s played just four appearances (two starts) this season for a total of 188 minutes. A strong Asian Cup performance put him in the shop window in the January transfer window, with Scottish giants Rangers and Celtic both interested in a loan move – but a deal to join brother John at Rangers fell through on deadline day. Saudi side Al-Nassr were also interested.
Souttar has vowed to fight for minutes at Leicester, but is unlikely to feature unless a starting centre-back is injured.
“I know obviously to continue to be in the national team, I’ve got to be playing club football – but we’ll cross that bridge when it comes,” Souttar told AAP during the Asian Cup.
“He’s got to sort out his club career, he really does,” coach Graham Arnold told AAP. “This can’t go on forever.”
For now, Souttar will be waiting desperately for the season to end and the next transfer window to offer him a way out of his nightmare.
Souttar kept up his incredible scoring record by pitching in at the Asian Cup.Source: Getty Images
MIDFIELDERS
Keanu Baccus
After playing all five matches at the Asian Cup, Baccus returned to Scottish club St Mirren with a half-hour bench appearance before a 90-minute effort against Celtic in the Cup. He’s started most games this season – and come off the bench in the handful where he’s started from the pine – and looks a crucial player in St Mirren’s run home. 25-year-old Baccus is also off-contract at the end of the season, so the next few months will be crucial for his future.
Jackson Irvine
The midfield maestro is back at German second-tier club FC St Pauli, where he wears the captain’s armband – but missed out on playing on the weekend after being “quite sick” and having a “really bad week”. He’s back at training with the team now, who are three points clear at the top of the table despite suffering their first league loss since April 2023. 19-year-old Aljoscha Kemlein (on loan) has been excellent in filling in for Irvine in recent weeks, but the 30-year-old Aussie is nailed-on to get back into the starting team and push for promotion to Germany’s top flight in the next few months.
Irvine was devastated after Australia’s Asian Cup exit.Source: AFP
Riley McGree
McGree started six of the first ten Championship matches for Middlesbrough (and came off the bench in the other four) before suffering a foot injury that ruled him out for two months.
He returned for just a handful of bench appearances before jetting off to the Asian Cup, where he made two starts and three substitute showings. Those handy minutes put him in good stead upon his return to club football, where he came back with a bench appearance before playing the full 90 minutes yesterday – but at attacking midfield rather than his usual left wing role. That’s because Middlesbrough signed 23-year-old talent Finn Azaz from Championship rivals Plymouth Argyle in early January. He had seven goals and five assists before the move, and has nabbed a goal and an assist in five appearances for his new club since then. McGree has a tough battle on his hands to unseat Azaz, but could be
Connor Metcalfe
The 24-year-old has appeared in every match for the Socceroos since the start of 2023, and continued that run with three starts and two sub appearances at the Asian Cup. Since then, he’s returned to FC St Pauli alongside Irvine, and played 28 minutes off the bench upon his return. Overall, he’s made 21 appearances this season with 12 starts and nine substitution efforts – so will be looking to press his case for a locked-down starting berth in the final months of the season.
Aiden O’Neill
The defensive midfielder has been sensational for Belgian club Standard Liege this season, and took things to another level last weekend with a sensational goal in a 1-0 win over OH Leuven.
On the edge of the area, O’Neill chested the ball down before slamming a half-volley into the net, his first goal for the club after joining last July.
“To be honest, there is a bit of luck in this goal,” the Aussie told DH Les Sports+. “I was in a good position and I said to myself ‘why not take my chance?’.
“I had already dreamed of scoring a goal like that but, to succeed in doing it, especially in such an important match, is something else. It means a lot.
“I had already scored goals from outside the box but, yes, I can say that this one is probably the best of my career. And it brings three super important points for the team.”
O’Neill had started six-straight league matches before the Asian Cup and looks to be back in the first team.
Aussie returns from Asian Cup in style | 00:41
FORWARDS
Martin Boyle
Having missed the 2019 Asian Cup and the 2022 World Cup through injury, Boyle finally got to represent the Socceroos at an international tournament.
The 30-year-old winger even got his first tournament goals, scoring a penalty against Uzbekistan and one of Australia’s four against Indonesia.
Boyle has wasted little time in returning to form for club side Hibernian since returning, scoring once and assisting another in the club’s 3-1 win over Inverness CT in the fifth round of the Scottish FA Cup.
He also played the full match as a right winger in a 2-1 defeat to Celtic on February 7 as Hibernian remain in eighth in the Scottish Premiership.
Sammy Silvera
Since moving to Middlesbrough from the Central Coast Mariners last summer, Silvera has largely been used as an impact substitute, coming off the bench 13 times prior to the Asian Cup.
Silvera enjoyed a similar role for the Socceroos in Qatar whenever Arnold sought out a fresh injection of pace and trickery but struggled to find his groove.
The Aussie youngster has once again reprised his role as an impact sub upon returning to Middlesbrough, coming off the bench in Boro’s last three Championship fixtures against Sunderland, Bristol City — where he scored a 91st-minute consolation goal — and Preston North End.
With 15 game left in Middlesbrough’s season, Silvera will hope to earn some regular starts as he looks to prove he belongs at the Championship level.
Bruno Fornaroli
Fornaroli entered the Asian Cup on the back of some scintillating form for Melbourne Victory, scoring 13 goals in 10 games.
A first start in Qatar for Fornaroli didn’t arrive until the Round of 16 clash against Indonesia as a result of Mitchell Duke’s injury-enforced absence, with the Victory man consigned to cameos off the bench in the Socceroos’ other games.
Fornaroli fired a blank in his first game back for Victory (1-0 defeat to Macarthur), when he suffered a fractured hand – but still played the entire game. He has since undergone surgery but could still play this weekend, and it’d be silly to bet against the 36-year-old enjoying another rich vein of scoring form.
After all, he’s still tied first for the golden boot race alongside Newcastle’s Apostolos Stamatelopoulos despite missing five games.
’El Tuna’ may be 36 years old, but he’s in vintage scoring form.Source: Getty Images
Kusini Yengi
Yengi took major strides in staking his claim to be the Socceroos’ next long-term option up front, starting the group stage clash against Uzbekistan in place of an injured Mitchell Duke, with Arnold describing his performance as “outstanding.”
He may not provide the same relentless pressing as Duke does up top, but Yengi’s physicality and ability to hold the ball up certainly caught the eye.
Yengi earned his call-up thanks to a strong debut season for League One promotion hopefuls Portsmouth with seven goals in 17 appearances prior to the Asian Cup.
And the former Western Sydney Wanderers man didn’t need to wait long to make an impact on his return at Fratton Park, scoring the first of Portsmouth’s three in a win over Cambridge United.
Marco Tilio
Having secured a dream move from Melbourne City to Celtic last summer, Tilio’s endured a Glaswegian nightmare.
The 22-year-old had clocked 28 minutes all season long under Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers but was still included in Arnold’s Asian Cup squad due to his ability to “bring that bit of difference as an impact player” and to “get that smile back on his face.”
Tilio appeared just once for the Socceroos in Qatar — five minutes off the bench against Uzbekistan — but has since secured a loan move to Melbourne City for the remainder of the season.
He made his return in the 5-1 humiliation against Brisbane in a 32-minute appearance off the bench and one would imagine it won’t be long before he’s back starting games again.
It is a loan move that must work out for Tilio in a bid to force his way back into Rodgers’ Celtic plans.
Otherwise his time with the Hoops could be over as quickly as it began.
Mitchell Duke
Duke remains Arnold’s first choice at striker, although the two group stage fixtures he played in didn’t exactly play to his main strengths of stretching opposition backlines.
The 33-year-old also had a golden chance to send Australia into the semi-finals against South Korea but flashed his header wide.
Duke is now gearing up for the 2024 J1 League season with Machida Zelvia having helped the team achieve promotion last year.
At his age, it’s likely Duke has just one more World Cup cycle left in him as Arnold must eventually turn to the next generation.
But as long as Duke has plenty of running left in him, he won’t give up his starting spot without a fight.
Craig Goodwin
Goodwin continues to age like a fine wine and richly deserved his spot in the AFC’s Asian Cup 2023 team of the tournament.
However, Goodwin cannot let his performances for club or country dip knowing Jordan Bos is breathing down his neck as his replacement at left wing, even though the latter has made his name predominantly as a left back.
The 32-year-old last featured for Saudi Pro League side Al-Wehda on December 31 before the league took a brief pause, but has started 13 of the 14 league games he’s played in this season.
Goodwin will most certainly have a vital part to play in the Socceroos’ road to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and will hope to feature at the tournament.
Goodwin’s outstanding performances at the Asian Cup saw him named in the team of the tournament.Source: Getty Images
John Iredale
Iredale represented somewhat of a surprise inclusion in Arnold’s Asian Cup squad, although the Aussie boss revealed the forward was a player he’d “admired for a long time.”
The 24-year-old, who plies his trade with 2. Bundesliga side Wehen Wiesbaden, didn’t see a minute of action in Qatar but earning a call-up is no easy feat.
In his return to action for Wehen Wiesbaden, Iredale came off the bench against FC Nuremberg for a brief cameo.
However, should Iredale start to receive more regular starts, expect him to figure in the conversation for Socceroos inclusions for several more international windows to come.
OTHERS — NON ASIAN CUP
Calem Nieuwenhof
The 22-year-old centre midfielder (well, he turns 23 tomorrow!) was one of the standouts in the last A-League season before moving to Scottish club Hearts in July. Since then, he’s come along in leaps and bounds – so much so that his coach is confident he’ll lace up his boots for the Socceroos soon.
After a slow start to the season, Hearts are third in the league with eight wins in a row in all competitions, and their Aussie foursome of Nieuwenhof, Kye Rowles, Nathaniel Atkinson and fellow young midfielder Cameron Devlin have been crucial to their success.
He’s played 25 times in all competitions, scoring two goals in his last five games and picking up an assist. His most recent goal was an absolute stunner.
Crucial to his rise has been an increased physicality and toughness in the midfield scrap – with the Scottish league the perfect place for the youngster to grow in that regard.
“The character he is, he’s a reserved person and is really chilled out,” coach Steven Naismith told The Scotsman. “That probably went against him in his first few months when he was finding his feet, but in training you can see his quality – his calmness in possession, his understanding of the game, his range of passing, and he is a goal threat as well.
“He’s one of the fittest players at the club. What he brings on and off the ball is really important. He’s consistently improving and becoming more dominant in games, which is why we signed him. We knew he was a good player, he’s a really good player.
“He’s got a desire to get into the international team and I don’t think that’ll be too far away if he continues in the same vein of form.”
Nieuwenhof said his manager was ‘not wrong, for sure’ about being chilled out – but added: “You need to go into every game with that mindset that you are going to have to get stuck in and get involved. Cammy’s great to learn from. He’s a real dog and a really aggressive player. For sure that is something I can take from his game. That’s something I have really learned across the last few months and brought it into my game and just trying to get consistency into that side of my game, the physical aspect.”
For now, he looms as a crucial member of Australia’s Under-23 Olyroos squad who will compete in the U-23 Asian Cup in April-May in a bid to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics. But he’s building a compelling case to join the Socceroos’ stacked midfield ranks.
Two-cap Socceroo Cameron Devlin, meanwhile, was ruled out for around six weeks after an ankle injury which cost him a place at the Asian Cup. The 25-year-old has been on the bench for the last two games for Hearts but has not yet played.
Alessandro Circati
Circati’s stock continues to rise with every game for Serie B side Parma and it’s only going to strengthen the case for his inclusions in future Socceroos squads.
The 20-year-old was left out of the team that went to the Asian Cup as Arnold felt it was better for his development to keep playing at club level rather than warm the bench in Qatar.
Since Serie B resumed from the winter break, Circati has started three of the five games, with one draw and two wins in that time with Parma losing one of the games he was benched for.
Circati has plenty of years on his side and, crucially, the benefit of regular game time.
Additionally, Parma are six points clear at the top of Serie B and are no doubt the favourites for promotion, meaning Circati could very easily be lining up in Italy’s top flight next season.
If Parma go up and Circati starts Serie A games, the noise will only grow louder for his inclusion in Socceroos line-ups – and the rumours of Premier League interest will only grow stronger.
Ajdin Hrustic
Hrustic has rapidly fallen from his status as one of the Socceroos’ key creative outlets to the international wilderness, but a January switch could provide the spark needed to get his career back on track.
The midfielder’s move from Frankfurt to Serie A side Hellas Verona has been an unmitigated disaster, failing to even make the bench for any of their league games this season.
But Hrustic sealed a loan switch to Dutch side Heracles Almelo and earned a start in just his second match, helping the club to a 3-2 win over Vitesse. It was his first top-flight start in over a year.
It’s a much-needed move for Hrustic if he is to force himself back into Arnold’s thoughts ahead of World Cup qualification.
Hrustic has not appeared for the Socceroos since a 45-minute showing in the 2-0 friendly defeat to Argentina in China last June.
Given the Socceroos’ struggles when it came to unlocking deep-lying defences at the Asian Cup — a problem the Aussies will encounter throughout the road to the 2026 World Cup — Hrustic’s return would be a welcome one.
Hrustic finally ended a year-long nightmare at Verona.Source: Getty Images
Cristian Volpato
Until Volpato makes his international future clear, there’s still a chance he could be capped for the Socceroos in the not-too-distant future.
Speaking to ESPNprior to the Asian Cup, Arnold revealed he had been in constant communication with Volpato but the talented midfielder “wants to just focus on his club career” for now.
Since moving from Roma to Sassuolo last summer, Volpato has largely been consigned to appearing off the bench and only just made his first start of the season against Bologna.
But Volpato made full use of the opportunity, scoring a stunning goal to give Sassuolo a 2-1 lead in the 34th minute as they went on to record a 4-2 victory.
With the 2026 World Cup cycle about to begin, could Volpato’s interest in international football be piqued?
Nestory Irankunda, Garang Kuol and Awer Mabil
And what of the Socceroos’ attacking trio of Nestory Irankunda, Garang Kuol and Awer Mabil?
Mabil has been a mainstay of the Socceroos set-up and loomed as a likely inclusion for the Asian Cup squad, but he picked up an injury in Grasshopper’s 1-0 win over Basel on December 10 and has not been sighted since.
Prior to the injury, Mabil had been in solid form throughout the season and started eight out of 12 games he appeared in, with four goals and three assists to boot.
At 28 years of age, expect Mabil to be in and around Socceroos squads for the next World Cup cycle.
Popular figure Awer Mabil missed the Asian Cup with injury.Source: Getty Images
On the other end of the age spectrum is Kuol and Irankunda.
Kuol burst onto the scene for the Central Coast Mariners and earned a move to Premier League side Newcastle United, but from there his club journey hasn’t gone as he’d have hoped.
He moved to Eredivisie side FC Volendam on a season-long loan but they sit in 17th place, nine points away from safety.
Kuol himself has struggled to hold down a starting spot as well, clocking just 55 minutes of action since December.
It’s important to remember he is just 19 years of age and there’s plenty of time on his side, but as it stands, he’s behind in the pecking order of Socceroos’ wingers.
Garang Kuol scored his maiden Socceroos goal last March.Source: Getty Images
Then there’s Adelaide United winger Irankunda, who recently turned 18 and is headed for Bayern Munich at the end of the season.
The teenage sensation turned heads with blistering power in his shots and silky runs down the right, breezing past defender with ease.
However, since his move was announced, Irankunda has often cut a frustrated figure on the field and Adelaide coach Carl Veart even said he doesn’t “see enough happiness” from the prodigy.
Irankunda was brought into the Socceroos fold as a train-on player for the friendlies against Ecuador in March last year and has also featured for the Joeys.
Should Irankunda continue his remarkable upward trajectory with Bayern, a full Socceroos call-up is not out of the question and he could loom as a major game-changer for the upcoming World Cup cycle.
Socceroos skipper Mat Ryan has been brought back into the starting lineup but there was no such luck for Riley McGree as Australia take on India in their Asian Cup opener.
Both players did not take part in the warm-up friendly against Bahrain but the duo were passed fit for the India clash.
Follow all the action from the Socceroos’ Asian Cup clash against India in our LIVE BLOG below!
However, Ryan earned a start while McGree was left to make do with a spot on the bench.
Elsewhere across the team, Martin Boyle finally gets to represent Australia in an international competition after injury robbed him of appearances at the 2019 Asian Cup and the 2022 World Cup.
There’s also a competitive debut for Bolton Wanderers defender Gethin Jones, who slots in at right back.
Arnold also went with the familiar trio of Jackson Irvine, Keanu Baccus and Connor Metcalfe in midfield.
The Aussies will look to avoid a similar start to this edition of the Asian Cup after a disastrous start in the last time they competed in the continental competition.
The Socceroos slipped to a shock 1-0 loss against Jordan five years ago but thankfully rebounded with wins against Palestine and Syria to seal a spot in the knockout stages.
Although India may be ranked 77 places below the Socceroos in 102nd, they will likely look to sit deep and stunt the Aussie forwards.
The ability to break down India’s low block will also be of great interest to Aussie fans given the Socceroos’ struggles over the years to unlock deep backlines.
Although the vast gap in star power was evident, the Socceroos did not take a backwards step against England as the hosts edged out a narrow 1-0 win at Wembley Stadium.
An Ollie Watkins goal was all that separated the two nations, but Graham Arnold’s side could feel hard done by to not take anything away from the contest.
Despite the defeat, there was a lot to love about the Socceroos’ performance as they stood up against yet another global powerhouse while a tactical tweak could prove intriguing in the future.
Foxsports.com.au breaks down the contest in Socceroos Talking Points!
THE PHRASE INSPIRING SOCCEROOS AGAINST FANCIED OPPONENTS
Graham Arnold has banged on about the “Aussie DNA” throughout his tenure as Socceroos coach, but it continues to ring true in every match the team plays.
Although England trotted out what many would consider a second-string line-up, it still featured hundreds of millions of dollars worth of talent.
Even when England brought on the likes of Marcus Rashford, Kieran Trippier and Phil Foden in the second half, it provided a timely reminder of the vast gap in depth available.
It would have been easy for most teams to roll over and accept their fate, but not the Socceroos.
As assistant coach Rene Meulensteen — who stepped in for the post-match press conference as Arnold had lost his voice — pointed out, a four-word phrase encapsulated why the team wouldn’t take a backwards step.
“The one thing that we have to respect everybody, but we don’t fear anybody,” Meulensteen said.
Arnold was left to rue what could have been for the Socceroos against England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“Without a shadow of a doubt he’s got world class players in every position. But for us, I think if you look back, we had a fantastic game plan, we were very well organised.
“There’s not many national teams, I’ll tell you that, that have the courage to go and press against the big teams.
“Because I tell you, most of the national team coaches, they think they haven’t had enough contact time with the team so they’re up for a more calm approach.
“We always go full out and press where we can and I think that’s admirable.”
Granted, England enjoyed the lion’s share of possession with 67 per cent compared to Australia’s 33 per cent share.
Despite their time on the ball, it was the Aussies who produced more chances and mustered 14 shots in total with four on target, compared to England’s nine and three on target.
It’s further evidence Australia can mix it with the big boys, even if there is a vast gap in star power available.
Arnold has got the ‘Aussie DNA’ flowing through his team. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
AUSSIE STARS’ HEARTBREAK SAYS IT ALL
The fact a number of players were left devastated after the game is proof the Socceroos were more than well in the contest.
Ryan Strain had an effort cleared off the line, England goalkeeper Sam Johnstone produced a flying save to deny Keanu Baccus and Connor Metcalfe was denied by the post in cruel scenes.
Much like the Argentina contest at the World Cup, the Socceroos wondered what could have been as they attempted to recreate the feats of the 2003 squad that famously beat England 3-1.
Jackson Irvine, who made a miraculous recovery to return from a serious ankle injury to then start against the Three Lions, felt it was “undoubtedly” an opportunity missed to get one over their historic rivals.
“You can feel it in the dressing room after the game,” Irvine told reporters after the game.
“You think after an occasion like this (we’d be happy) but it was a bit flat.
“That’s a testament to the mentality of the group, you know, coming to a place like this against an opponent like that and feeling like there was something for us tonight, a little bit of a missed opportunity.”
Irvine was dejected after the result. (Photo by Tom Dulat/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
The sentiment was echoed by Craig Goodwin, who put in an outstanding shift on the left wing and whipped in several free kicks that had the England backline worried.
The Al-Wehda forward believed the team must now develop that killer streak in front of goal that the rest of the world’s top teams possess if they are to get the results the Socceroos’ performances deserve.
“I think we played really well, created some really good chances, but probably need to be a little bit more ruthless with the ones that we have.
“At the end of the day we played against a top opposition and one of the best international teams in the world.
“So we take pride from that but we have to obviously try and finetune those areas and the chances that we do create – and then hopefully from there we can take our game to the next level.”
Who knows when Australia will face England next, but you can be sure England boss Gareth Southgate won’t look at this fixture lightly any more.
Goodwin believes the Socceroos need an extra bit of finetuning in the final third. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
THE BACKLINE HEADACHE ARNIE WILL WELCOME
For the second straight game, Arnold has named Kye Rowles at left back as Cameron Burgess slotted in as the left-sided centre back alongside Harry Souttar.
It is an interesting plot from Arnold, especially since Rowles is traditionally a centre back and was forming an impressive partnership alongside Souttar.
But Burgess’ form for club side Ipswich Town made him impossible to ignore and earned a deserved call-up to the national team.
Rowles was given the tough task of shutting down England livewire Jarrod Bowen, who has been in scintillating form for club side West Ham United.
Although the Hearts defender had a slow start and was caught napping for a brief moment, Rowles certainly grew into the contest and proved a dependable option.
The decision to play Rowles at left back also represents a slight tweak in tactics from Arnold given Aziz Behich, who has often been first choice in the position for several years, is willing to get up and down the flank.
Rowles didn’t look out of place at left back. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
So too is Jordan Bos, who has emerged as Behich’s potential successor in the position but is adept at playing further forward if necessary.
However, Meulensteen pointed out it’s all about keeping the team’s options open and praised both Rowles and Burgess for their performance.
“It’s always good to have players that can play in multiple positions,” Meulensteen said.
“It’s difficult for us in windows in September or October that we can use Australian players because the A-League hasn’t started, so those players weren’t fit enough. That was the case with Aziz.
“We know that Kye can play there. Kye’s very comfortable there and with Cam Burgess coming in, to see what we can do there.
“Again, Cam Burgess put in an outstanding performance. It’s another option for us.”
It’s a headache for Arnold and his coaching staff to consider in the future, but it’s certainly a welcome one.
Cameron Burgess was impressive alongside Harry Souttar at centre back. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP)Source: AFP
‘BRAVE’ YOUNGSTERS NOT OVERAWED BY OCCASION
A fixture against England at Wembley is a daunting colosseum for any player to walk into, let alone a number of inexperienced Socceroos.
But Keanu Baccus, Ryan Strain and Connor Metcalfe did not look overawed by the occasion at all.
Strain, making his first Socceroos start, was tasked with keeping £100m superstar Jack Grealish quiet while Baccus had to shut down an England midfield featuring Jordan Henderson, James Maddison and Conor Gallagher.
As for Metcalfe, he had to do his best to shut down early England attacks and simultaneously help spark ones for the Socceroos once they gained possession.
Although Strain picked up a yellow card for a cynical foul on Grealish, the Manchester City superstar was largely shackled by his adversary before he was replaced by Lewis Miller in the 74th minute.
He also came within inches of opening the scoring, with only a desperate goal-line clearance from Lewis Dunk denying him from a goal.
As for Baccus, he was one of the Socceroos’ best in an all-action midfield display in which he showed all of his physical and technical qualities.
Metcalfe almost got on the scoresheet himself but directed his header against the post in the dying minutes.
Safe to say, the next generation for the Socceroos left Meulensteen impressed. “You have to give those boys enormous credit,” Meulensteen said.
“The bravery that they had, I think it’s the mentality that stands out for us.
“We can go toe-to-toe with all different nations. We are just trying to find that extra bit of quality to really put them to the sword, and that’s what we’re looking for.”
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup has finally arrived.
For the Matildas and the 31 other teams competing, it is the culmination of a four-year journey filled with plenty of trials and tribulations.
Tony Gustavsson’s side isn’t the favourite to win the World Cup, but with a nation behind them on home soil, they are expected to go deep into the tournament.
This Australian squad has undergone a major revamp from its last appearance at a World Cup when they exited in the Round of 16 in 2019.
One of the key issues four years ago was the glaring lack of depth, especially in the backline.
Thankfully, Gustavsson has rectified that issue not just on the defensive front but all over the park, with seven players set to make their World Cup debuts.
Talismanic skipper Sam Kerr will lead the line with the weight of a nation on her shoulders, but who else could play a starring role alongside her?
Foxsports.com.au breaks down every member of the 23-player Matildas World Cup squad, forecasts what role they will have throughout the tournament and predicts the starting line-up for the opener against Ireland on July 20!
Oddly enough, the goalkeeper position has long been one with strong stocks over the years for both the Socceroos and Matildas.
Although the men have often had a clear No.1 goalkeeper, the Matildas have often been blessed with riches between the sticks.
That is no more evident than the trio of goalkeepers in the Matildas squad for the World Cup.
Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah and Lydia Williams have all spent time as Gustavsson’s top option in goals throughout his tenure.
It has fluctuated over the four-year journey since the 2019 World Cup, but it appears we now have a clear front-runner for the role.
Regardless, the Matildas would be in safe hands no matter who ends up as the final line of defence.
Mackenzie Arnold (West Ham)
35 caps
Making her third Women’s World Cup squad (but having not yet featured on the pitch), Arnold is one of many veteran Matildas who have travelled around the world to take their game to the next level. From her hometown club Brisbane Roar to Norway, the US, and now England with West Ham, Arnold is in the peak of her powers and her exceptional club form has been repeated in the green and gold. In February, she was Player of the Tournament in the Cup of Nations after some commanding performances between the sticks.
Teagan Micah (FC Rosengard)
14 caps
The 25-year-old is widely viewed as the ‘next generation’ keeper to inherit the No.1 jersey from the veterans in Arnold and Williams, and her standout performances at the Tokyo Olympics saw her surge into genuine contention for the starting role.
But Micah endured a torrid six months after suffering a major concussion in a Champions League match in early December.
She could hardly leave bed for two months and continued to experience ongoing symptoms like severe headaches, nausea and dizziness for months afterwards. Her battle with concussion and the subsequent toll it took on her mental wellbeing was largely hidden from the public, with her club and the Matildas only stating she was injured. But just last month she returned to club action and will run out for the Aussies at her second World Cup.
Teagan Micah is back in action after dealing with the effects of a major concussion. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Lydia Williams (Brighton)
102 caps
Williams has made her fifth World Cup squad, the most for any Australian player (alongside a fellow Matilda, but more on the later).
The veteran goalkeeper made her debut in 2005 and has remained a constant presence for the Tillies ever since.
Although she was seen as the No. 1 option between the sticks in recent years, Williams has since been struggling for game time for her country with the recent rise of Micah and Arnold.
She’s also battled for minutes at club level too with stints at Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain largely spent on the bench, before a switch to Brighton helped her to some much-needed action on the park.
Whether Williams can nudge ahead of Arnold and Micah in the pecking order remains to be seen, but her experience and calming presence will prove critical for the Tillies.
DEFENDERS
At the 2019 World Cup, the Matildas’ worrying lack of depth in defence was brutally exposed.
Fast forward to today and one could argue it’s our deepest area on the park.
There’s strong competition for places with plenty of young faces breaking into the Matildas squad in recent years, but there’s also the reliable veteran faces of Steph Catley, Alanna Kennedy and Clare Polkinghorne to name three.
Although Gustavsson is spoilt for choice in several areas across the back, he must make a number of harsh calls going into the World Cup opener against Ireland.
Ellie Carpenter (Lyon)
62 caps
Carpenter burst onto the international scene as a fresh-faced 15-year-old for the Matildas in an Olympic qualifier against Vietnam and has never looked back since.
The Cowra native, who plays as a right-back, is undeniably coach Gustavsson’s first choice in the position as she provides endless amounts of energy up and down the flank.
There were fears she could have missed a home World Cup when she ruptured her ACL during Lyon’s UWCL victory over Barcelona last year, but returned to action in February and is chomping at the bit.
Her overlapping runs and bursts of pace on the right are critical to how Gustavsson wants the Matildas to play, so expect to see Carpenter joining in with plenty of attacks only to see her racing back and putting in a crunching tackle.
Carpenter has battled her way back from a torn ACL. (Photo by Martin KEEP / AFP)Source: AFP
Steph Catley (Arsenal)
110 caps
From featuring on the cover of FIFA16 to proving her credentials overseas, vice-captain Catley is one of the most recognisable faces in the Matildas line-up.
The 29-year-old is able to play anywhere across the back four, but is predominantly used as a left back or a left centre back.
The Arsenal star also has a wicked delivery from set pieces which, in tournament football, can be the difference between winning and losing, such are the fine margins.
Over the years Catley has been beset by a number of injuries and struck fear into the hearts of Matildas supporters when she was subbed on and then subbed off during Arsenal’s win over Leicester City in May.
She also missed the Matildas’ friendlies against Scotland and England in early April with a foot injury.
However, Catley was at her dependable best against France and will be a lock for the Ireland clash.
Charlotte Grant (Vittsjo GIK)
18 caps
Grant has enjoyed a rapid rise to prominence for the Matildas ever since she made her international debut against Ireland in September 2021.
The young fullback, who specialises on the right flank, will enjoy her maiden World Cup appearance which is sure to be one of many throughout her budding career.
The South Australian began her career with Adelaide United before moving to Swedish outfit FC Rosengard and then Vittsjo GIK last year, where she counts fellow Matildas Clare Polkinghorne and Katrina Gorry as teammates.
Although she has been stuck behind Carpenter in the pecking order, her injury opened the door for Grant to earn a number of starting berths against the likes of Sweden, Spain and England.
Her first goal at international level and a player of the match award against the Lionesses proves Grant can more than hold her own and will push Carpenter all the way for the starting role.
Clare Hunt (Western Sydney Wanderers)
6 caps
With a dad who played one first grade match for the Canberra Raiders and a brother, Henry, who plays for the Adelaide Strikers in the BBL, Clare Hunt comes from a strong sporting background.
She made her debut against the Czech Republic during the Cup of Nations in February earlier this year and coach Gustavsson remarked how absurdly comfortable she seemed on the park for a debutant.
It has not been a straightforward journey to this point given she underwent seven different operations from 2018 to 2022 for a variety of injuries.
Hunt made the PFA A-League Women’s team of the season thanks to an outstanding campaign for the Wanderers and impressed once again against France after a shaky moment early on.
She’s made it extremely difficult for Gustavsson to drop her from the starting line-up, so expect Hunt to start the World Cup opener.
Clare Hunt has displayed a maturity beyond her six Matildas caps. (Photo by Martin KEEP / AFP)Source: AFP
Alanna Kennedy (Manchester City)
109 caps
Kennedy has been a mainstay in the in the Matildas squad ever since she made her debut in June 2012 against New Zealand at age 17.
This World Cup will be the centre back’s third and her eighth major tournament for the national team.
Although she may have over 100 appearances for the Matildas under her belt, Kennedy has battled for game time at club level in recent seasons with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City.
This past season the 28-year-old dealt with a series of frustrating injuries that kept her to only four games across all competitions for City and hasn’t played since March.
Yet she slotted in at the back alongside Hunt in the France friendly and looked as if she’d missed no time at all, earning her a highly likely starting berth against Ireland.
Aivi Luik (BK Hacken)
49 caps
What a remarkable journey for Aivi Luik.
After retiring from international duty in August 2021, the 38-year-old was convinced to backflip on the decision by Gustavsson and is now headed to her second World Cup.
Luik’s versatility will be crucial to the Matildas, as she can play at left back, centre back and even in centre midfield very comfortably.
She may not have as many caps as one might expect, but having played in 10 countries throughout her career, Luik has plenty of experience in the bank that the youngsters of the squad can call on.
It’s highly unlikely Luik will be a starter, but she could certainly feature at some stage should Gustavsson need someone to help see out a game in the latter stages.
Courtney Nevin (Leicester City)
23 caps
Nevin is at her first World Cup having been handed her debut by Gustavsson as an 18-year-old against Denmark in 2021 before making the Tokyo Olympics squad.
The young full back then earned a move to Swedish side Hammarby IF in 2022 but came into her own during a loan spell at WSL side Leicester City.
Thanks to three assists and a clean sheet, Nevin was nominated for the WSL Player of the Month award in April as she played a key role in keeping the Foxes safe from relegation.
She’s since signed a permanent deal with Leicester and will no doubt come on in leaps and bounds over the years.
Nevin is unlikely to be a first choice option at fullback for the World Cup, but her quality will be critical to the Matildas’ depth should something happen to Carpenter or Catley.
Courtney Nevin (right) has proven to be a dependable option at left or right back when needed. (Photo by William WEST / AFP)Source: AFP
Clare Polkinghorne (Vittsjo GIK)
157 caps
There’s a good reason as to why Sam Kerr described Clare Polkinghorne as the “mum” of the team at the press conference for the squad announcement.
Polkinghorne is headed to her fifth World Cup and holds the record for most caps in Matildas history with a staggering 156 to her name across a 17-year span with the national team.
Evidently the most experienced operator in the team, Polkinghorne is a cool head at centre back and a guaranteed starter provided she is 100 per cent fit, although she missed time in April for Swedish club Vittsjo GIK with a lower-leg injury.
The only worrying aspect of Polkinghorne’s inclusion is her lack of pace which can get exposed in Gustavsson’s high-press style of play, but her tactical nous should be more than enough to not get into such situations often.
She was left out of the starting line-up for the France clash but came on in the second half and did her job to keep a clean sheet.
A fully-fit Polkinghorne starts, but Hunt and Kennedy showed the team is still strong at the back without the veteran’s presence.
MIDFIELDERS
There’s a youthful exuberance about the midfield options but, like in defence, Gustavsson has named a number of experienced stars.
In Gustavsson’s current system, there’s just two central midfield positions up for grabs and we already have a good idea as to who will start in them for the World Cup.
However, the France friendly proved a number of these players can slot seamlessly anywhere else on the park and make an impact.
They also present as serious impact options off the bench and can flip a game on its head, an invaluable quality in tournament football.
Alex Chidiac (Racing Louisville)
27 caps
Chidiac has developed a cult following for her bubbly personality and humorous nature, but don’t think for a second she doesn’t flip the switch once it comes time to take the park.
The silky midfielder’s six goals in 13 games while on loan at Melbourne Victory in the 2022/23 A-League Women’s season earned her the Julie Dolan Medal, the league’s most prestigious honour.
She’s since returned to Racing Louisville in the NWSL and continues to impress.
The 24-year-old is not a guaranteed starter and will likely be used by Gustavsson as a fresh injection of guile, creativity and energy off the bench.
Kyra Cooney-Cross (Hammarby IF)
28 caps
Cooney-Cross looms as one of the most important players at the World Cup for the Matildas.
Having made her A-League Women’s debut for Melbourne Victory at age 15, Cooney-Cross has continued to impress with each passing year.
She’s also become a massive hit with fans of her Swedish club Hammarby after playing a starring role en route to the side winning the Swedish Cup and thus ending a 28-year trophy drought.
Cooney-Cross has developed a formidable partnership with Katrina Gorry in the heart of the Matildas midfield and looks set to reprise that role at what will be her first World Cup.
Cooney-Cross has made the centre midfield position her own. (Photo by Martin KEEP / AFP)Source: AFP
Katrina Gorry (Vittsjo GIK)
94 caps
Gorry has been a mainstay of the Matildas over the course of 11 years and has become a vital player in Gustavsson’s high-octane style of play.
The pint-sized midfielder, affectionately known as ‘Mini’, is back in the Tillies set-up after giving birth to her daughter Harper.
She wasted no time in finding her feet on the park when she was named Player of the Match in her comeback game against New Zealand where the Matildas came from behind to win.
Gorry is expected to line up alongside Cooney-Cross in the midfield with the duo having played alongside one another in Australia’s five games played in 2023.
Emily van Egmond (San Diego Wave)
128 caps
It’s hard to picture the Matildas in the modern era without Van Egmond running around in the No. 10 jersey.
She made her debut aged 16 in 2010 and scored her first Matildas goal the following year at the Women’s World Cup against Equatorial Guinea.
Since her debut in 2010, Van Egmond has failed to play 10 games or more in a calendar year just three times, highlighting her longevity and importance to the side.
However, the 29-year-old has been battling form and fitness issues in recent times and only recently returned to action for NWSL side San Diego Wave after a back injury.
If Gustavsson opts for a two-player central midfield, which looks likely, Van Egmond may be squeezed out of the starting line-up.
Van Egmond has been a mainstay in the Matildas team since debuting in 2010. Photo by Michael Klein.Source: News Corp Australia
Clare Wheeler (Everton)
13 caps
Another one of the several World Cup debutants in the Matildas’ ranks.
Wheeler logged plenty of minutes for Everton in the WSL this season so she will not be short of match fitness.
However, she isn’t exactly a guarantee to start in the midfield, especially if Gustavsson is to go with two centre mids instead of two holding midfielders and a No. 10.
She is a defensive midfielder by nature and relishes doing the dirty work of breaking up opposition attacks and, if games become stretched, Wheeler could be a vitally important option off the bench.
Tameka Yallop (SK Brann)
113 caps
This is Yallop’s fourth World Cup having made her tournament debut in 2011.
The 32-year-old is one of the most versatile members of this Matildas squad, an invaluable quality given how quickly a game can turn.
Yallop underwent ankle surgery late last year but returned to the Matildas fold for the 2023 Cup of Nations.
Yet she hurt her ankle again during Australia’s thrilling win over England, which leaves her under somewhat of an injury cloud going into the tournament.
An injury to her left knee against France will have everyone sweating nervously as they await the verdict of how severe it is.
She’s likely to feature in cameos off the bench throughout the World Cup.
FORWARDS
This is where the magic happens and the area with the most recognisable names.
Sam Kerr, our superstar striker, is the first name on the team sheet and will lead the Matildas’ attacking line for the tournament.
Gustavsson has toyed with different formations in the final third but looks to have settled on having two up top, one of which is Kerr.
But the versatility of all the forward options gives the Swede plenty of choices in which to slightly tweak things during a game if need be.
There’s also a clear theme when it comes to the key attributes of the wingers selected and it’s one that aligns perfectly with how Gustavsson wants his side to play.
Caitlin Foord (Arsenal)
109 caps
Although Sam Kerr may be the headline act in the Matildas’ attack, Caitlin Foord has become a superstar in her own right at the top end of the field.
Her World Cup debut in 2011 earned her the Best Young Player of the Tournament award and Foord has never looked back since, scoring 29 goals in her 108 games since.
But a run of 12 goals in her last 30 appearances proves she’s in outstanding goalscoring form for the Matildas in recent times.
Not only that, she’s been a phenom for Arsenal in the WSL this season.
Gustavsson has recently deployed Foord in a two-striker formation alongside Kerr, but don’t be surprised to see her out on the wing either.
Regardless, Foord is a nailed-on starter for the World Cup.
Foord has linked up well when paired with Kerr in a front two. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Mary Fowler (Manchester City)
37 caps
At just 16 years of age, Mary Fowler was a member of the 2019 World Cup squad but didn’t see any game time.
Four years on, she’s grown to be an integral part of this Matildas line-up under Gustavsson and will undoubtedly see more minutes.
An attacking midfielder who can also play along the front line with ease, Fowler can pick out a pass, drift past a player as if they’re a training cone or fire in a strike from range.
Her arsenal of weapons is sure to be critical to the Matildas’ hopes, although she fractured her back while playing for club side Manchester City in April and has been unable to play since.
Came on at half time against France and was quiet in the early stages, but once she moved into a more central role she thrived and scored the only goal.
More than good enough to start, but will likely have an impact role off the bench going into the World Cup opener against Ireland.
Sam Kerr (Chelsea)
121 caps
What more is there to say about Sam Kerr?
Captain fantastic. Australia’s record goal scorer. The first Australian to score a hat-trick at a World Cup.
Kerr scores goals for club and country like there’s no tomorrow and has been unlucky not to pick up the Ballon d’Or Feminin in recent years.
The Chelsea sharpshooter has also picked up two Golden Boots, four league titles and three Women’s FA Cup trophies along the way since moving to London from the Chicago Red Stars.
She’s the first name on the team sheet and her goals will be critical to the Matildas’ success.
As for the danger she poses to the opposition, Kerr put it best when she said rival defenders may pocket her for 89 minutes, she just needs that one chance to seal the deal.
Enough said.
Hayley Raso (Real Madrid)
71 caps
The rapid Hayley Raso is one of the most important outlets for the Matildas.
Her lightning-quick pace helps her leave opposition defenders in a spin and has a keen eye for goal too, showcasing that with a double in Australia’s Cup of Nations win over the Czech Republic earlier this year.
Raso’s impressive form for Manchester City this season also earned her a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid and will look to carry the momentum into the World Cup where she aims to score her first goal in the tournament.
Instantly recognisable with her trademark bow, Raso’s attacking intent will be key and is a guaranteed starter.
Raso’s rapid pace gives defenders nightmares. (Photo by Mackenzie Sweetnam/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Kyah Simon (unattached)
111 caps
One of Australia’s great comeback stories, Simon has battled injuries time and again in her career, from a broken leg aged 15 to a syndemosmis injury in 2019 that ruled her out of the 2019 World Cup.
Always, the resilient star has fought back – making her debut aged 16 in 2007, or fighting back from that 2019 injury to play a key role in the Matildas’ best-ever Olympics result in Tokyo 2021.
In September last year, that injury curse struck again when playing for Tottenham, tearing her ACL, MCL and meniscus. Having already underwent multiple knee reconstructions in the past, as well as hefty shoulder and ankle surgeries, another comeback seemed out of reach.
But she worked tirelessly on physio and rehabilitation and is back in the squad for a third World Cup (after 2011, ‘15).
She said: “When I did my injury, straight away, my first thought was the World Cup. That was my sole motivation and focus every day … I’ve probably worked the hardest that I ever have in my career.”
Simon has a knack of goals in big games – the winning penalty at the 2010 Asian Cup, two goals against Norway at the 2011 World Cup to reach the knockouts, or her goal against Brazil in the 2015 tournament to hand Australia a first-ever knockout win.
The Anaiwan and Biripi woman is also the first Indigenous player to score at a World Cup and the first to reach 100 caps for the Matildas.
Sam Kerr said: “She’s kind of an X factor and she has been her whole career.”
Cortnee Vine (Sydney FC)
17 caps
One of just two A-League Women’s players in the Matildas World Cup squad, Cortnee Vine has more than earned her place.
Her remarkable speed is a major asset whether she starts or comes on as an impact substitution, especially against tired defenders.
Vine made her debut in January last year and has since made 16 caps, highlighting how impressed Gustavsson has been with the Sydney FC flyer.
Was handed a starting berth against France in a big show of faith from Gustavsson and although she couldn’t find her shooting boots, her pace was pivotal to the Matildas’ attacking play.
Lionel Messi could be looking at easily the biggest contract in football history to move to Saudi Arabia, which would once and for all answer the sports’ GOAT debate.
Just last year, Cristiano Ronaldo signed a deal believed to be worth more than 200 million euros (A$314m) per season until June 2025 to join Saudi Arabian club side Al-Nassar.
It was a deal that made him the highest paid player in history.
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The deal pushed Ronaldo to the top of the Forbes Rich List on a reported $US136m ($A203m), ahead of Messi at $US130m ($A195m).
French captain Kylian Mbappe was third on $US120m ($A180m), with LeBron James on $US119.5m ($A179m) the first non-footballer on the list in fourth.
But this could rapidly change with The Telegraph reporting cashed up Saudi Arabian interests could offer Messi an earth-shattering $A600m a season deal.
“Talks with Messi’s representatives, led by his father Jorge, are underway for when the player becomes a free agent at the end of June upon the expiration of his Paris Saint-Germain contract,” The Telegraph report said.
“There are discussions that the whole package could be worth $US400 million annually (£320m) that would exceed even the £165m that Cristiano Ronaldo is being paid annually to play in Saudi until the summer of 2025.
“The conventional process for signing the world’s top talent, as with Ronaldo in December, has been for the deal to have State involvement before a final destination club is decided.
“Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr, currently second in the league behind leaders Al-Ittihad. Al-Nassr’s traditional rivals are Al-Hilal and placing Messi with that club, historically the nation’s most successful, would recreate the rivalry the pair had for nine years with Real Madrid and Barcelona.”
It would be quite the offer for Messi. Photo by DAMIEN MEYER / AFPSource: AFP
It’s believed Messi is unhappy at Paris Saint-Germain after he was suspended by the club after travelling to Saudi Arabia without permission.
A source with knowledge of the disciplinary procedure told AFP that Argentina’s 35-year-old World-Cup winning captain, who is out of contract at the end of the season, would be sidelined for “several days”, while various media in France reported that he would be suspended for two weeks.
“He cannot train, cannot play, and will not be paid while disciplinary measures are in place,” the source added.
Another source, also speaking on condition they were not identified, indicated that the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner would “probably” be sidelined for a fortnight, noting that “nobody is more important than the club”.
Messi played the whole game in PSG’s 3-1 home defeat by Lorient in Ligue 1 on Sunday.
He then travelled to Saudi Arabia to fulfil commercial commitments in his role as a tourism ambassador for the Gulf state.
The disciplinary measures make the prospect of Messi staying in the French capital after his two-year deal expires at the end of this season even more remote.
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to have around half the deal Messi would earn. Photo by AFPSource: AFP
Having at one point looked set to extend his stay for another year, a source close to the club told AFP last month that he was now “much more likely” to depart.
Despite having scored 31 goals in 71 matches, Messi was jeered by a section of the PSG support, who see him as a symbol of all the club have done wrong in focusing on superstar signings while failing to build a genuinely competitive team.
Messi and Ronaldo were widely believed to have been playing for football’s “Greatest of all-time” tag in last years’ World Cup, with the Argentinian superstar coming away with his first title.
To go with his impressive resume of seven Ballon D’ors, four Champions League trophies, 10 Spanish league titles, Olympic gold and even his breakthrough 2021 Copa America, the World Cup triumph even saw FIFA tweet that the “GOAT debate was settled”.
It’ll be even harder to argue if he landed the most mind-boggling contract in sporting history.
