Matildas Secure Hard-Fought Victory Over Philippines in Asian Cup Opener
The CommBank Matildas began their AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ campaign with a 1-0 win against the Philippines at Perth Stadium on Sunday. A first-half goal from captain Sam Kerr, her 70th for her country, proved to be the difference in a match where Australia dominated possession but found the Philippines’ defence resilient.
Kerr Makes History in Front of Record Crowd
Sam Kerr’s goal in the 14th minute wasn’t just a crucial strike to open the tournament; it was a historic moment. The goal marked her 70th international goal, making her the first Australian player – male or female – to reach that milestone. The goal came in front of a crowd of 44,379 at Perth Stadium, a significant turnout for the opening match.
Montemurro Mixes Youth and Experience
Head Coach Joe Montemurro opted for a blend of experience and emerging talent in the starting lineup. Notably, 21-year-old goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln earned her fourth cap for the national team, starting in goal. The defensive line featured Clare Hunt and Winonah Heatley, providing a solid foundation, although Kerr led the attack.
Dominance and Near Misses
Australia controlled the majority of the possession, with the Philippines adopting a deep defensive strategy. Caitlin Foord and Sam Kerr combined effectively for the opening goal, with Kerr heading home a pinpoint cross from Clare Wheeler. Hayley Raso too had a goal disallowed for offside following a VAR review. Steph Catley’s free kick was saved by Olivia McDaniel, preventing Australia from extending their lead.
Second Half Struggles and Substitutions
Despite continued dominance in the second half, Australia struggled to break down the Philippines’ defence and create clear-cut chances. Montemurro made substitutions, bringing on Alanna Kennedy for Clare Wheeler and Mary Fowler for Emily van Egmond in the 68th minute, and later Amy Sayer for Hayley Raso. Fowler’s introduction provided a spark, but the Matildas couldn’t add to their tally.
Resilient Philippines Prove Tough Opponents
The Philippines proved to be a challenging opponent, maintaining a strong defensive shape throughout the match. Their resilience limited Australia to a single goal, despite the Matildas’ sustained pressure.
Match Details
Australia: 1 (Sam Kerr 14’)
Philippines: 0
Australia Starting XI:
Chloe Lincoln (GK), Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Clare Wheeler (Alanna Kennedy 68’), Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Emily van Egmond (Mary Fowler 68’), Hayley Raso (Amy Sayer 81’), Katrina Gorry, Sam Kerr, Ellie Carpenter
Philippines Starting XI:
Olivia McDaniel (GK), Jessika Cowart, Hali Long, Jaclyn Sawicki, Sara Eggesvik (Jourdyn Curran 83’), Carleigh Frilles (Ariana Markey 59’), Chandler McDaniel (Mallie Ramirez 59’), Angela Beard, Sofia Wunsch, Katrina Guillou (Isabella Pasion 83’), Alexa Pino (Jael Guy 45’)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who scored the winning goal for Australia?
A: Sam Kerr scored the only goal of the match in the 14th minute.
Q: How many fans attended the match?
A: 44,379 fans were in attendance at Perth Stadium.
Q: Was this Mary Fowler’s first appearance for the Matildas after injury?
A: Yes, this was Mary Fowler’s first appearance for the CommBank Matildas in 328 days.
Q: What was the final result of the match?
A: Australia defeated the Philippines 1-0.
Don’t miss out on the action! Explore more about the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ and the CommBank Matildas on the official Matildas website.
