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When the CommBank Matildas take to the pitch at Perth Stadium on the 1st of March, it won’t just mark the start of their AFC Women’s Asian Cup campaign, but rather the beginning of a new chapter in one of Australian sport’s most powerful stories. West Australian superstar Sam Kerr returns to captain a Matildas squad that fuses a golden core with the next wave of national team talent, all under the guidance of newly appointed Head Coach Joe Montemurro.

For Montemurro, this is more than a new year. It’s Australia’s pathway to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil next year, and an opportunity to galvanise a squad shaped by both legacy and evolution. Announced this week, Australia’s 26-player squad features eight Asian Cup debutants- Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Kahli Johnson, Jamilla Rankin, Charlize Rule, Amy Sayer, Kaitlyn Torpey, and Jada Whyman. They join decorated veterans and household names like Steph Catley, Ellie Carpenter, Emily van Egmond and, of course, Kerr herself.

Kerr leads the line for a fifth Asian Cup campaign. Catley and Carpenter will provide experienced leadership as vice-captains. After a year marked by injury absences, Mary Fowler’s return offers real attacking spark; she’s joined by the fit-again goalkeeper Jada Whyman, both ready to write their own comeback stories in the green and gold.

Montemurro, making his tournament debut as national team boss, sees the squad as a careful blend of proven experience and potential gamebreakers. “Selecting a squad is never easy, but it’s a privilege to bring together players who truly represent the identity and spirit of the CommBank Matildas,” he explained. “We have a strong mix of experienced leaders who understand what it means to wear green and gold, alongside younger players who have earned their opportunity and will play a vital role in our future.”

A NEW GENERATION EMERGES

The expanded squad speaks to a new era for Australia. With eight newcomers earning a debut call-up, Montemurro can draw on depth that former coaches could only dream of. Michelle Heyman, Holly McNamara, Remy Siemsen, and Kahli Johnson add attacking options. Charlize Rule and Jamilla Rankin bring fresh faces to a reinforced backline.

Montemurro knows squad size is only an asset if it’s used strategically. With a tightly packed schedule- up to six games in 21 days- he and his staff will look to rotate effectively and ensure every player makes an impact. “Our goal is to have players that are playing regularly, that are healthy and ready to contribute,” he said. “Given the nature of the tournament, we don’t have the luxury to bring players back to fitness during camp. Everyone here is ready now- and every player will be needed.”

THE ROAD AHEAD: PERTH, GOLD COAST, SYDNEY

The opening fixture against the Philippines in Perth is more than just another group-stage game; it’s a chance to stamp authority and set the tone for the rest of the competition. The Matildas then head east, with group matches on the Gold Coast and in Sydney, as they chase a spot in the knockout stages.

Perth hosts 10 matches in total, including two quarter-finals and a semi-final. A capacity home crowd will give Kerr and her side the platform they crave. Montemurro hopes this environment fires his squad to new heights. “Hosting a major home tournament is an honour we do not take lightly. We are ready, focused and determined to make the nation proud.”

“If you look at the composition, everyone here is selected for a reason. No one’s just making up the numbers,” Montemurro said. He paid tribute to those in the A-League who narrowly missed out, reiterating Australia’s bright future. “There’s so much talent; we just need to keep exposing them to international competition.”

Mary Fowler’s selection after rehabbing her ACL is a calculated risk. Her role, whether as starter or super-sub, will only become clear once the games begin. Kerr, too, returns hungry, her fitness and form at Chelsea providing optimism. “There’s a real buzz in her voice about coming home and playing for the fans,” Montemurro said.

ARE THE MATILDAS READY TO LIFT THE TROPHY AGAIN?

This is the central question as Australia’s Golden Generation meets its next wave. With a deep squad, home advantage, and the likes of Kerr, Fowler, Catley and van Egmond on deck, belief runs high. Fans can expect signature attacking football, quick transitions, and the kind of show-stopping moments that have defined this team in the modern era.

Beyond the headlines, the squad’s diversity and balance give Montemurro flexibility in style and tactics, but the basics remain.

“We want to dominate games and be in charge of our destiny,” said Montemurro.