The Australia women’s national soccer team opened their 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over the Philippines on Saturday night at Perth Stadium, but the full-time mood suggested a team far from satisfied.
Played in front of a record crowd of 44,379 fans, the Group B clash had all the ingredients of a celebratory start — yet the final whistle was followed by modest handshakes, quiet high-fives and appreciative applause rather than jubilant scenes. The Matildas know their performance did not fully reflect their potential.
Captain Sam Kerr delivered the decisive moment early, scoring in the 14th minute before completing the full 90 minutes as she continues her comeback from a long-term ACL injury. Her goal ultimately proved enough to secure three points and a clean sheet, strengthening Australia’s early position in the group.
Head coach Joe Montemurro named a near full-strength starting XI, with only goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold and midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross unavailable. Despite dominating possession with a commanding 85 per cent share of the ball, Australia managed just six shots on target against a disciplined Philippines side that sat deep and executed a stubborn defensive plan.
The Filipinas absorbed relentless pressure, slowing the tempo and frustrating Australian attacking waves. A tight VAR decision ruled out a Hayley Raso goal for offside, while Emily van Egmond’s header over the crossbar underscored missed opportunities that could prove costly against stronger tournament contenders such as Japan, North Korea and China.
Kerr’s early strike, celebrated with arms outstretched, injected life into the stadium and served as a reminder of her influence — even as she admits she is operating at around “85 per cent” fitness.
Another significant positive was the return of Mary Fowler, who entered the match in the 68th minute for her first Matildas appearance in nearly a year following her own ACL recovery. Her vision and creativity immediately added spark, with Montemurro hinting she could soon push for a starting role.
Montemurro’s fluid, free-flowing system — sometimes labelled “messy” by critics — was on full display. Steph Catley surged forward from left back, Katrina Gorry and Clare Wheeler drifted across midfield, and Ellie Carpenter and Hayley Raso rotated positions in a calculated yet dynamic structure.
“Apparently my football is messy,” Montemurro said post-match. “I like that players are free.”
Up next, the Matildas face Iran on the Gold Coast before a high-stakes encounter with South Korea in Sydney. While Saturday night’s result delivered a vital three points, the squad understands sharper finishing and greater ruthlessness will be essential as the tournament progresses — especially with World Cup qualification on the line.
The performance may not have dazzled, but the objective was achieved. The Matildas have begun their Asian Cup journey — and they insist their best football is still to come.
