Matildas given a last shot at Asian Cup silverware as new wave joins squad

Joe Montemurro named a 26-player Matildas squad that mixes veteran stars aiming for a rare home trophy with eight players making their Asian Cup debuts; Australia must reach the semi-finals to guarantee qualification for next year's Women's World Cup in Brazil.

The Matildas have been named for the Women's Asian Cup, which opens with a match against the Philippines on 1 March. The 26-player squad blends long-serving veterans with younger talents, reflecting both an opportunity to win silverware at home and a need to build for the future. Many of the team's well-known players are at or past 30 and the tournament is likely to be a last major chance for several of them. Coach Joe Montemurro said selection balanced immediate cover for many positions and the need to identify players who can contribute in different scenarios. Key facts: - The Asian Cup begins with Australia facing the Philippines on 1 March. - Joe Montemurro selected a 26-player squad that mixes experienced stars and newcomers. - Eight players are making their Asian Cup debuts: Amy Sayer, Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Kahli Johnson, Jamilla Rankin, Charlize Rule, Kaitlyn Torpey and Jada Whyman. - Several veterans are likely playing their last Asian Cup, including Sam Kerr, Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Alanna Kennedy, Emily van Egmond, Mackenzie Arnold, Katrina Gorry, Hayley Raso and Michelle Heyman. - Australia must reach the semi-finals to guarantee qualification for next year's Women's World Cup in Brazil; otherwise the team would face an inter-confederation playoff. Summary: The squad aims to balance a final opportunity for established players to win a major trophy on home soil with the need to introduce and test younger players for the future. The coaching staff emphasised positional depth and tactical flexibility, and the team's progress and qualification fate will be determined during the tournament.