The Matildas will face Wales in a friendly on October 25 as part of preparations for the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. Coach Joe Montemurro emphasizes team growth, while fans await Sam Kerr’s potential return.
🇦🇺 Matildas Announce October Clash With Wales as 2026 Women’s Asian Cup Preparations Intensify
The Matildas will face Wales on October 25, 2025, in Cardiff during the FIFA international window, ramping up preparations for the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. With only two FIFA windows left before their campaign opens against the Philippines on March 1, every match is vital for team cohesion and strategy.
This fixture marks the first time the Matildas and world No. 32-ranked Wales will meet. Despite not yet qualifying for a Women’s World Cup, Wales recently featured in the UEFA Women’s Euro, making them a credible and challenging opponent.
🤕 Sam Kerr’s Return Remains Uncertain
The spotlight remains on Sam Kerr, who hasn’t played since tearing her ACL in January 2024. While the timeline for her return is still uncertain, fans are eager to see if she’ll rejoin the Matildas before the Asian Cup.
“It remains to be seen whether Sam Kerr can make her Matildas return in the next window,” noted team officials. Her return would be a major boost as Australia pushes to dominate on home soil.
🧠 Montemurro Highlights Importance of Wales Fixture
New Matildas head coach Joe Montemurro stressed that this match is more than a friendly—it’s a cornerstone in building the team’s new identity and performance culture ahead of the Asian Cup.
“We are looking to make the most of the next few FIFA Women’s International windows and Wales is the perfect test for the team as we have never played them before and they are a competitive side that will test our style of play,” Montemurro said.
“It is important that we make the most of every opportunity together, to continually build on the relationships we are forming and setting high standards to enhance our high-performance environment.”
Early Matches Under Montemurro Raise Concerns
Montemurro’s early tenure was marked by inconsistent performances. The Matildas narrowly escaped with a shaky 3-0 win against Slovenia, followed by a 1-1 draw in the second match. Alarm bells rang after a 1-0 loss to Panama (ranked 56th). A second match against Panama saw the Matildas come from behind to win 3-2, thanks to a brace from Michelle Heyman and a 91st-minute winner by Charli Grant.
With the Asian Cup fast approaching and fans demanding better form, these October fixtures—including the clash with Wales—will be critical in shaping the squad’s readiness.
