Sam Kerr is set to play in front of Australian fans for the first time since the 2023 Women’s World Cup, after being named in Joe Montemurro’s 24-player squad for two upcoming home friendlies against New Zealand. Tameka Yallop has also been recalled, marking her first international appearance since April.
Montemurro is using these fixtures to build squad depth ahead of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, which will be held in Sydney, Perth and the Gold Coast next March. The matches against New Zealand — scheduled for November 28 in Gosford and December 2 in Adelaide — fall during the second-to-last international window before the tournament.
With only four or five official friendlies remaining to finalise his preferred lineup and give younger players more experience, Montemurro stressed that this period is crucial. Kerr returns as captain after recovering from an ACL injury that kept her off the pitch for months, while Yallop rejoins the group after missing several games with a hamstring issue.
Speaking on Monday, Montemurro said the squad blends seasoned veterans who understand what it means to represent Australia with emerging players who will be vital to future success. He added that the goal is to refine team chemistry and reinforce the strong culture within the Matildas setup.
The coach also highlighted that this series against New Zealand will be Australia’s last chance to play in front of home fans before the Asian Cup, making it an important moment for both preparation and connection with supporters.
Australia and New Zealand have met 50 times in official matches, but not since a two-leg series in 2022, when the Matildas won 2–1 in Townsville and 3–1 in Canberra.
Australia squad vs. New Zealand
Goalkeepers: Mackenzie Arnold (60), Chloe Lincoln (3), Teagan Micah (27)
Defenders: Ellie Carpenter (91), Steph Catley (139), Charlotte Grant (39), Winonah Heatley (12), Clare Hunt (38), Alanna Kennedy (141), Courtney Nevin (38)
Midfielders: Kyra Cooney-Cross (61), Katrina Gorry (116), Amy Sayer (18), Emily van Egmond (163), Clare Wheeler (32), Tameka Yallop (134)
Forwards: Caitlin Foord (138), Michelle Heyman (84), Kahli Johnson (2), Sam Kerr (130), Holly McNamara (14), Hayley Raso (101), Remy Siemsen (13), Kaitlyn Torpey
