Who Did Football Australia Select for the Women's Asian Cup Squad?
Synopsis
Football Australia has officially announced its squad for the upcoming AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 in Australia. Led by the seasoned Sam Kerr, this lineup includes fresh talent and aims to make a significant impact on the international stage. The Matildas are ready to contend and strive for victory in this prestigious tournament.
Key Takeaways
The squad consists of 26 players, including eight debutantes.
Sam Kerr leads the team as captain.
The tournament is crucial for FIFA Women's World Cup qualification.
Matches will occur at multiple venues across Australia.
Australia aims to build on its past successes in the Asian Cup.
Sydney, Feb 19 (NationPress) On Thursday, Football Australia (FA) announced a 26-player roster for the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026. Head coach Joe Montemurro has included eight players who will participate in the tournament for the first time.
The team will be captained by Sam Kerr, who is making her fifth appearance in the Asian Cup. Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter will serve as vice-captains. Forward Mary Fowler makes her return to the Matildas after recovering from a serious knee injury sustained while playing for Manchester City in April 2025.
This tournament marks Montemurro's first significant challenge as head coach since his appointment in June 2025. 'The team is prepared, focused, and eager to make our nation proud, and we can't wait to share this experience with fans throughout the country,' Montemurro stated in a media release from FA.
Australia will kick off its campaign against the Philippines in Perth on March 1, followed by additional group-stage matches set to take place on the Gold Coast and in Sydney.
Having previously won the Women's Asian Cup in 2010 and finishing as runners-up in 2006, 2014, and 2018, Australia finds itself in Group A alongside South Korea, Iran, and the Philippines. Group B includes North Korea, China, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan, while Group C features Japan, Vietnam, India, and Chinese Taipei.
The AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026 will also act as the final qualification stage for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. This tournament will be the last time qualifications are linked, as standalone qualifiers for the FIFA Women's World Cup will begin with the 2031 edition.
Matches for the tournament will occur at two venues each in Sydney and Perth, and one venue in the Gold Coast.
The 12 teams qualified for this event are grouped into three groups of four. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the quarterfinals.
Point of View
The announcement of the Women's Asian Cup squad showcases Australia's commitment to women's sports. The blend of seasoned players and emerging talent reflects a strategic approach to building a competitive team. The Matildas' past successes set high expectations, and the nation stands united in support as they embark on this journey.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the captain of the Matildas?
The captain of the Matildas is Sam Kerr, who is participating in her fifth Asian Cup.
When does Australia play its first match?
Australia's first match is against the Philippines on March 1 in Perth.
How many teams are competing in the AFC Women's Asian Cup?
A total of 12 teams are competing in the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026.
What is the significance of this tournament?
This tournament serves as the final qualification stage for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
Where will the matches be held?
Matches will take place at venues in Sydney, Perth, and the Gold Coast.
