After nearly two years away from international duty, Sam Kerr has made her long-awaited return to the Australian national team. The Chelsea striker, who has spent 634 days battling her way back from a devastating injury, has been named in the Matildas squad for their upcoming fixtures against Wales and England—a moment coach Joe Montemurro describes as “special for Australian football.”
A Long Road Back from Heartbreak
Kerr’s nightmare began on a Chelsea training pitch in Morocco, where a serious injury abruptly halted her soaring form for both club and country. The recovery process was grueling—months of isolation, endless rehab, and the lingering fear she might never return to her best. She missed almost two full seasons, including the 2024–25 campaign and the Paris Olympics. But through sheer determination, the Australian star refused to give up.
The Comeback Everyone Was Waiting For
In August, Chelsea confirmed that Kerr had returned to full training. Just weeks later, she made her emotional comeback in September against Aston Villa. Subbed on late in the game, she marked her return with a scrappy but symbolic goal—her first in 634 days. The roar from her teammates said it all: the Matildas’ icon was back.
A New Era Under Montemurro
This October marks Kerr’s first call-up under new coach Joe Montemurro, formerly of Arsenal and Juventus. He praised her return as a defining moment for the sport in Australia.
“Having Sam back is a special moment—not just for the team, but for Australian football,” Montemurro said. “Her experience and leadership will be crucial as we prepare for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup and beyond.”
As Australia rebuilds under Montemurro, the team also welcomes back Cortnee Vine and Katrina Gorry, though injuries have ruled out Mary Fowler and Tameka Yallop. One lingering question remains: will Kerr regain the captain’s armband from Steph Catley, who led the side admirably in her absence?
Eyes on Wales and England
The Matildas will face Wales on October 25 in Cardiff—their first-ever meeting—before taking on England three days later in Derby. The latter fixture reignites memories of their 2023 World Cup semi-final, where the Lionesses’ 3–1 victory ended Australia’s dream run. With Kerr back in the lineup, however, the Matildas will be eager for redemption and ready to make a statement on the global stage
