The Matildas will look markedly different when they start their campaign at the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup next month. While the return of captain Sam Kerr is a welcome sight after her own injury recovery, the biggest shift isn’t about who’s back, but how coach Joe Montemurro intends to utilize the entire 26-player squad. This isn’t the Matildas of the 2023 World Cup, a team that, despite its historic run, often felt reliant on a largely fixed starting eleven. The focus now, as the team prepares to host the tournament across Sydney, Perth, and the Gold Coast, is on genuine depth and tactical flexibility.
The shadow of the previous regime, led by Tony Gustavsson, still lingers. Questions about squad rotation and game management followed the Matildas’ semi-final exit at the World Cup, with some players acknowledging “heavy legs” in the third-place play-off against Sweden after a seventh consecutive start for the same lineup. Montemurro, appointed after Gustavsson’s departure, appears determined to avoid a repeat of that scenario. The message is clear: depth isn’t about having players to fill in during injuries; it’s about having a squad of players capable of contributing meaningfully, and starting, at any given moment.
A New Approach to Squad Depth
Montemurro’s vision of “depth” is a departure from the traditional understanding of the term in football. He doesn’t see reserves as simply backups waiting for an opportunity, but as integral components of the team, each with a specific role to play. “No one’s coming in as squad depth; everyone’s coming in for a reason and will be called upon,” Montemurro stated. So fans should expect to see a more fluid lineup throughout the tournament, with players rotating in and out based on form, opposition tactics, and the demands of a grueling schedule.
The opening match against the Philippines in Perth on March 1st might feature Sam Kerr, but Montemurro has signaled that another player could lead the attack against Iran three days later on the Gold Coast. The crucial group stage finale against South Korea in Sydney on March 8th could see further adjustments, dictated by the specific challenges posed by each opponent. Even positional roles aren’t set in stone; Kennedy, for example, could feature in defensive midfield, central defense, or not at all, depending on the game plan.
The Competition for Spots is Fierce
This new approach creates a highly competitive environment within the squad. The midfield, in particular, is brimming with talent, with Katrina Gorry and Kyra Cooney-Cross facing competition from Clare Wheeler and the returning Alex Chidiac. Up front, alongside Kerr and Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, Mary Fowler, Michelle Heyman, Holly McNamara, and Remy Siemsen are all vying for playing time. Even the goalkeeper position remains open, with Mackenzie Arnold and Tegan Micah both in contention.
The inclusion of eight Asian Cup debutants – Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Kahli Johnson, Jamilla Rankin, Charlize Rule, Amy Sayer, Kaitlyn Torpey, and Jada Whyman – further underscores Montemurro’s commitment to integrating fresh talent and building a squad capable of adapting to any situation. The coach emphasized the importance of being prepared for “quick turnarounds” and the challenges of travel between Perth, the Gold Coast, and Sydney, stating, “We’ve got to cover all scenarios. So if we needed to change system, if we needed to change structure, we could do that quickly.”
Fowler’s Return and Kerr’s Leadership
The return of Mary Fowler, after recovering from an ACL injury sustained in April 2025, is a significant boost for the Matildas. She returned to club football with Manchester City in February 2026, though has seen limited minutes recently due to a “knock”. Her inclusion provides Montemurro with another attacking option and adds to the team’s overall depth. ESPN highlighted the smooth and speedy nature of Fowler’s rehabilitation.
Leading the team will be Sam Kerr, who will be making her fifth appearance at the Women’s Asian Cup. She is the only remaining member of the Australian squad that won the title in 2010. Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter have been named vice-captains, providing additional leadership within the group. Kerr has been working her way back to full fitness following her own ACL injury, and has featured in friendlies for the Matildas in the latter half of 2025.
The Matildas’ preparation for the Asian Cup is about more than just selecting a starting eleven. It’s about building a resilient, adaptable, and competitive squad capable of navigating the challenges of a major tournament. Montemurro’s emphasis on rotation and utilizing the full depth of the team suggests a willingness to embrace uncertainty and prioritize long-term success over rigid tactical adherence. The 2026 Asian Cup promises to be a different viewing experience than the 2023 World Cup, one where the strength of the collective, rather than the reliance on a select few, will be the key to Australia’s success.
The Matildas begin their Asian Cup campaign on March 1st against the Philippines. Fans can find the full schedule and results on the AFC website. The team’s progress will undoubtedly be closely followed by supporters across the country as they aim to lift the trophy on home soil.
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