Fan favourites both young and old make Matildas’ Asian Cup squad

By Alyce Collett (19/2/26)

Above: Alex Chidiac is back in the Matildas’ squad after not being selected for a number of windows recently. Image: via A Leagues.

The much anticipated Australian squad for the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup has been revealed, with a good mix of experience and youth in the 26 player squad.

On the one end of the experience scale there are eight players (Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Kahli Johnson, Jamilla Rankin, Charlize Rule, Amy Sayer, Kaitlyn Torpey and Jada Whyman) who have never been in an Asian Cup squad before.

Meanwhile at the other end of the experience scale, captain Sam Kerr is in her fifth Asian Cup squad, while her deputies Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter are in their fourth and third respectively.

After much speculation it has been confirmed that Mary Fowler is in the squad for the tournament, less than a year after she ruptured her ACL. Jada Whyman is also in the squad after having missed the last few windows due to injury.

Alex Chidiac and Charlize Rule are also both in the squad, with the fan favourites returning to the national team set up after seeming to have fallen out of favour with national team selectors in recent times.

Reflecting on the squad selection, Matildas head coach Joe Montemurro said that “today is an important moment for the team as we name the squad for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026.

“Selecting a squad is never easy, but it is a privilege to bring together players who truly represent the identity and spirit of the CommBank Matildas, and who understand the responsibility of representing Australia. 

“We have selected a strong mix of experienced leaders who understand what it means to wear the green and gold, alongside younger players who have earned their opportunity and will play a vital role in our future. 

“Hosting a major home tournament is an honour we do not take lightly. The team is ready, focused and determined to make the nation proud, and we look forward to sharing this moment with fans across the country.”

Australia opens the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup against the Philippines in Perth, before taking on the Islamic Republic of Iran and then Korea Republic to round out its group stage.

Matildas Squad – 2026 Women’s Asian Cup

Goalkeepers: Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah and Jada Whyman.

Defenders: Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Alanna Kennedy, Courtney Nevin, Jamila Rankin and Charlize Rule

Midfielders: Alex Chidiac, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Katrina Gorry, Amy Sayer, Emily Van Egmond and Clare Wheeler.

Forwards: Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Michelle Heyman, Kahli Johnson, Sam Kerr, Holly McNamara, Hayley Raso, Remy Siemsen and Kaitlyn Torpey.

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USA boosts squad experience level for SheBelieves Cup

By Alyce Collett (18/2/26)

Above: The USA will be trying to win the SheBelieves Cup for the sixth time when the 11th annual edition of the tournament kicks off next month. Image: via US Soccer.

In a big week for international squad announcements, the United States has revealed its squad for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup, set to take place across the USA next month.

The squad of 26 has gained a significant boost in experience compared to the one that faced Paraguay and Chile last month.

There are 11 players in the SheBelieves Cup squad that was not in the January squad, including some of the country’s most experienced players like Lindsey Heaps, Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett.

They come into the squad in place of some of the less experienced players like Avery Patterson, but there was also no room for players like Croix Bethune and Hal Hershfelt.

The squad includes only 13 members of last year’s SheBelieves Cup squad, and nine players named to their first ever SheBelieves Cup squad.

In perhaps another sign of the change in thinking of Head Coach Emma Hayes, this is the first squad with no uncapped players in it since Hayes took over in 2024.

Speaking at the squad announcement, Hayes praised the format of the SheBelieves Cup as good preparation for major tournaments like next year’s World Cup.

“The SheBelieves Cup is a fantastic tournament which gives us the opportunity to replicate the group stage of a FIFA tournament,” said Hayes.

“Three quality games in quick succession also allow us to replicate conditions that will prepare us for the World Cup qualifying campaign this fall. As always, we want to keep developing our player pool to be more and more prepared. As we gain more experience, I expect our standards to keep improving.”

The USA begins its SheBelieves Cup against Argentina in Nashville in Tennessee on March 1, before playing Canada in Columbus , Ohio on March 4 and Colombia in Harrison, New Jersey on March 7.

U.S.A Women’s National Team Roster – 2026 SheBelieves Cup

Goalkeepers: Claudia Dickey, Mandy McGlynn and  (Utah Royals; 5), Phallon Tullis-Joyce.

Defenders: Jordyn Bugg, Emily Fox, Naomi Girma, Lilly Reale, Tara Rudd, Emily Sonnett, Gisele Thompson, Kennedy Wesley and Kate Wiesner.

Midfielders: Sam Coffey, Lindsey Heaps, Claire Hutton, Riley Jackson, Rose Lavelle, Olivia Moultrie, Jaedyn Shaw and Lily Yohannes.

Forwards: Maddie Dahlien, Jameese Joseph, Trinity Rodman, Emma Sears, Ally Sentnor and Alyssa Thompson.

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Asian Cup Preview: Iran

Above: Iran lines up for a recent game. Image: Iran Football Federation.

By Genevieve Henry (18/2/26).

The Iranian Women’s National Team, also known as Shirzanan or the Lionesses, are set to compete in Group A against Australia, South Korea, and the Philippines in their second-ever Asian Cup. With a mixed bag of performances against other Asian teams lately, Iran have shown they not only have the potential to score, but to hold top teams to tight matchups.

Without adequate training facilities and a consistent friendly schedule, Iran faces struggles in their development that a few other countries are familiar with. This team continues to improve and act as a catalyst for change even without the systems to support them. Among the current protests in Iran, the team has been unable to practice or play their scheduled friendlies.

Squad:

TBA.

Head Coach:
Above: Marziyeh Jafari on the sidelines. Image: AFC.

Marziyeh Jafari is an impressive figure in Asian women’s football. She has coached Bam Khatoon, the most successful club in the Iranian professional women’s league, since 2010. She has led the team to multiple AFC Women’s Champion’s League campaigns. Jafari is the most titled women’s coach in Iran and even won the 2025 AFC Coach of the Year. While she was appointed in 2025 to coach the national team, she currently remains at Bam Khatoon, giving her a difficult dual role. It gives her the benefit of working with a few players at both levels.

Asian Cup History:

Iran are set to make just their 2nd ever Asian Cup appearance, their first coming in 2022 where they failed to make it out of the group. They lost both matches of the group stage to China and Chinese Taipei; they did not face India who withdrew. Their goal difference of -12 tells the story of their tournament.

How They Qualified:

Iran qualified as the winners of qualification Group A. Finishing on 9 points, level with hosts Jordan, Iran advanced thanks to their head-to-head win over Jordan–the superseding qualification rule. With a goal difference of 9 (to Jordan’s 11), Iran put on impressive displays in beating Singapore 4-0, Bhutan 7-1, and Iran 2-1. They lost to Lebanon 3-1. Their goal difference was the smallest of all the qualifying nations.

Strengths:

Iran has an impressive defensive record, largely due to the goalkeeping of Zahra Khajavi. In the four games (out of 12) Iran lost in 2025, they never lost by a goal margin of more than two. They conceded nine goals in total while scoring 35. When Iran faced Australia in 2023, they caused the Matildas some struggles and allowed just two goals in a tight game. It will be interesting to see how and if they can thwart their fellow Group A teams.

Iran also are known for individual skills, many of their players being trained in futsal and therefore operating well on their own.

Development Areas:

This team faces struggles with possession. The team does not have on-ball cohesion so they struggle to be united on that front. They also lack in depth and experience of players due to the political and social implications of women’s football in Iran. Without proper and equal resources, not many players are afforded opportunities to develop at a high level. The opportunity to play in this edition and the 2022 edition of the Asian Cup are great opportunities for the players to have a consistent training environment and games.

Key Players:
Above: Zahra Ganbari strikes the ball for Iran. Image: Tehran Times.

Zahra Ganbari is Iran’s top scorer with 16 goals according to some reports. She has been a leader and advocate for women’s football in Iran. She also captains the team as one of the most experienced players, having played for nearly 20 years. She plays for Iranian club Persepolis.

Fatemeh Amineh is a defender who leads the defense through her experience. The 28-year old plays for Bam Khatoon under Jafari, giving her a unique relationship that transfers tactics from club to country. This particular aspect of her game shines through in her positioning and communication that is necessary to keep scoreline manageable.

Zahra Khajavi is Iran’s top goalkeeper. As the starting goalkeeper for seven years, she is very popular in Iran. Her work off the line is matched by none and her leadership controls the defense. As she grew up playing futsal, her foot skills are unusually good for a keeper. She plays the largest part in keeping Iran’s defense in check and stopping the goals from pouring in due to disorganization.

One to Watch:

Sana Sadeghi has racked up an impressive number of caps for her age considering the inconsistent game schedule. The 25-year old plays for Persepolis in Iran, giving her a valuable connection with a large majority of her teammates who play for the same club. Her experience helps to vitalize the midfield and bridge the gap between younger players and veterans.

Success Would Be:

Winning a game or even scoring a couple goals in a tough group would be a success for Iran. As one of the newest teams to the tournament, this will likely be a learning experience on the long road to development.

Prediction:

Group stage exit. On paper, it seems highly unlikely that Iran could make it out of Group A, let alone win a game. No matter what, even qualifying for their second Asian Cup is an impressive feat.

Fixtures:

1st March — South Korea vs Iran, 7pm, Gold Coast Stadium

5th March — Iran vs Australia, 7pm, Gold Coast Stadium

8th March — Iran vs Philippines, 7pm, Gold Coast Stadium

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“There’s always an unknown”- Slegers remains laser focused ahead of UWCL play-off second leg

By Chloe Reynolds (17/2/26)

Above: Renee Slegers in her press conference Photo: Arsenal FC

Arsenal boss Renee Slegers brushed aside the narrative that her side’s Champions League play-off was already decided after a 4-0 win last week in Belgium, suggesting that opponents OH Leuven have the freedom to go all out and that her team should prepare for different situations on the night. Frida Maanum also spoke to the media.

Arsenal faced Leuven last week and earned a convincing 4-0 win over the Belgian side and Slegers has said that there are multiple scenarios ahead of this game in the way she could go tactical wise: “there’s two answers to it and one that’s easy because we’ve beat this opponent twice, and on the other hand, it’s a different scenario now and they might do things different and we’ll have to anticipate that. But, of course, we took a result that we’re happy with away. It’s 4-0 now, so I’ll have to manage the game really well and be proud that they will come out and do something different”

Maanum then added “first and foremost, tomorrow is about getting the result, but, of course, they might go come out and do something different. 
The more we have the ball, the better, but we still want to be very purposeful with the way we attack them. I think us scoring goals can be very important as well for where the game goes. We have fantastic players and I think if you look at lately how we’ve been creating chances and variety of chances in a variety of places that are scoring for us and assisting, that’s really good.”

Slegers also confirmed the team news for tomorrow’s game and if Taylor Hinds who was called up to the England squad earlier on today would be in contention “so Taylor Hinds has progressed really well. She did a full session with us today, and she’ll be in squad tomorrow, Kyra wasn’t on the pitch today, She was ill, so we’ll see how she is tomorrow, the other one is Anneke Borbe – she’s done full sessions, so she will be available tomorrow

Maanum also spoke about the impact of playing with a variety of players and the connection it brings to the team “For example Stina (Blackstenius) and Alessia (Russo) are quite different in the nine position. I enjoy that challenge to play with different players, and like the last game, I connected well with Caitlin (Foord), so I think it’s a good challenge, like I said, and it’s fun. 

The Dutch coach, also spoke about how her side will handle this familiar opponent “I don’t know what they are saying in their camp, what does success mean for them in this game and we’ll see if they look at their league games and they tend to be a little bit higher with higher pressure and they’re aggressive. So let’s see if they want to do that tomorrow. 
I think that’s one option we’ve seen. Do they go and be more direct and look for counter attacks directly? So we’ll see. There’s a couple of options for them to, explore, looking at, what do we want to bring to the game other than potential scenarios?, like we’ve been doing really well as a team. Still, there’s always an unknown going into the game, but we focus on what we know we can do.”

Last year the Gunners won the Champions League trophy in Lisbon after beating Barcelona, and Maanum has revealed that winning the trophy again is something that they speak a lot about within the training ground “, I would say we spoke about it quite a lot at the beginning of the season, and then there’s obviously a new season, new goals and we want to win that trophy again, but I think it’s always nice to reflect on it as a team together with the girls and the staff as well, look back on pictures and see what we went through last season. I think that’s a good reminder that we want to do it again this year.

This will also be one of the last games for the Australian trio of Steph Catley, Kyra Cooney-  Cross and Caitlin Foord before they head off for the Australian Cup, and Slegers has explained the game plan and how many games they could potentially be missing: “of course when we plan for the season, we know that that tournament is there and that’s potential for them to miss games for us. That is what it is.”

“I think if you look at the season, we want all players available constantly, and that’s going to be important in this phase of the season where we know that 3 players are going to be gone, and then on the tournament. It’s always unpredictable, and there’s always things that happen in the season that you have to deal with, and there will be no difference I think from a recruitment perspective, if that’s part of the question.

“I think this will be hopefully a maximum of 3 games. So that’s what we’ll have to take but they’re going to be very proud of going away representing their country in a big tournament and we wish them all the best. Of course, to be with us 2 more games, we’ll be really happy and to get them back into the team, to keep on progressing and keep on. performing well and getting as many ways, of course, for the second half of the season together with them.”

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NPLW VIC R1: Victory win at Veneto Club, and South find form early

By Kieran Yap 18/2/26

Above: Aeryn Tarrant celebrates Melbourne Victory’s goal against Bulleen. Photo: Passion Creations.

The NPLW Victoria has begun, with more games, more teams and more quality. Round One saw Melbourne City, Keilor Park, Melbourne Victory and Avondale make their debut’s, a new striker start off with a bang and some youngsters make a statement.

The opening night saw Essendon Royals travel to face the champions in Box Hill United. The two sides had contrasting pre-seasons, with Box Hill a victim of their own success. Their biggest names are currently playing across the A-League Women, while some of their best young talent are at two of the new clubs. Meanwhile, Essendon have retained much of their semi-final team, and seemingly strengthened with the signing of Kelli McGroarty and the return from injury of Ava Groba.

It was another new Royal who opened the scoring. Midfielder Bella Sewards surged forward to complete a fluid attacking move and finish across the goalkeeper.

Box Hill levelled the scores before half time through their American forward, Sydney Minarik. She raced onto a high, looping ball forward to power toward goal and finish emphatically.

Sewards was involved in Essendon’s second goal of the evening, The Royals willingness to make brave in-board passes opened up space out wide and Bronte Peel’s cross was finished on the volley by McGroarty to make it 2-1.

McGroarty sealed the three points with a thunderous long range drive in the 83rd minute. Essendon’s 3-1 win was a deserved victory, and a strong start to their latest attempt to win a trophy.

South Melbourne usually begin the NPLW season in strong form, and this year was no exception. Their 5-1 win over Bentleigh Greens was not as easy as the scoreline made it look. Although South dominated the early exchanges, but found Bentleigh hard to break.

Against the run of play, Julia Budiongo scored the opener for Bentleigh. The Congolese striker is difficult to stop, and once she gets goal side, difficult becomes impossible. She scored in typical fashion in the 23rd minute.

South Melbourne eventually found their groove and the back of the net in the second half. TJ Vlajnic’s Olimpico corner levelled the scores before Raquel Derales put South ahead just minutes later.

Francesca Iermano scored a third and soon after Alexis Pantazopoulos put the game beyond doubt. Although the result was secure, South were not finished and Nikki Furukawa scored the fifth in the 84th minute.

The third game of Friday night saw Spring Hills FC and Keilor Park SC play out an entertaining 1-1 draw. Abby Holmes scored the likely goal of the round with a first time hit from at least 20 yards. She took Jenna Ibrahim completely by surprise with a long range, curling shot to give the league’s new arrivals a surprise lead.

Roisin Murphy score the equaliser almost immediately after half time, and despite some close calls that saw Spring Hill’s defence scramble the ball away, the scores remained level up until the final whistle.

Saturdays action saw Melbourne Victory’s U23 side travel to the Veneto Club to face The Bulleen Lions.  The Lions were without midfield maestro Sarah Cain and coach Caitlin Friend was serving a touchline ban following a tense semi-final at the end of last season.

Melbourne Victory were making their debut in this competition and were out to make an impact. Poppy O’Keefe pulled the strings in midfield to give Victory early control, while Emily Rutkowski was excellent at fullback.

Fiorina Iaria’s early chance skimmed just wide, but Victory broke the deadlock in the 14th minute when Leyla Hussein nodded home after Alyssa Dall ‘Oste saved a close range shot from Sienna Techera.

That goal was enough to win it. Despite Bulleen spending much of the second half looking dangerous, they could not find the equaliser, only the gloves of Chloe Mckenzie and the woodwork with a late corner.

The Lions will be sure to respond and improve as players regain fitness, but this was an incredible start for Melbourne Victory’s youngsters.

At Dorothy Laver Reserve, Alamein FC only needed one goal to defeat the star studded Avondale FC. Savanna Anastasopoulos scored on the edge of half time to give the home side the perfect start to their campaign.

Zoe Houghton’s cross from the right made it all the way to the far post and Anastasopoulos was able to control then finish on the turn with excellent technique.

Melbourne City were welcomed to the NPLW by an impressive Boroondara Eagles. Sarah Brunner scored a brace for the visiting team, using her pace and strength to burst clear and beat Dali Gorr-Burchmore for the opener. A contentious and slightly confusing penalty was later awarded to The Eagles from a corner kick. Kanako Higuchi made it 2-0 from the spot.

Zoe Bennett’s corner made it 3-0 to the visitors. The goal will go down as an own goal, but there was little anybody could do to deal with the quality of the curling delivery.

City forward Mary Brown pulled on back for the hosts to score their first ever NPLW goal. Her persistent and diligent pressing caused  a turnover from the goal kick in a classic case of “When Playing It Out From The Back Goes wrong”

Brunner extinguished any hopes of a comeback with an excellent solo goal in the 77th minute. after cruising into the penalty area from the right, she cut inside and finished at the near post to make it 4-1 for Boroondara.

In the final fixture of the round, premiers Heidelberg United hosted The Preston Lions at the Olympic Village. Valentine Pursey’s diving header won the day for Preston after she nodded on Rhiannon O’Looney’s cross after the winger created space for herself with some sparkling footwork.

New Preston goalkeeper Charlotte Hrehoresin excelled as The Lions defended their slim lead, with the single goal proving enough to earn three points.

The ladder does not mean much after one round, but South Melbourne currently occupy to spot with Boroondara scoring one goal less in their own big win. Round two will provide several intriguing clashes, with perhaps the most interesting being Bulleen and Avondale both looking to respond to losses and South and Preston facing off after wins.

In Appreciation of…Jade Tam

Screenshot

In previous seasons, this column has focussed on one main game and then recounted the big moments of the others. We are going to change things up a little with some appreciation of an individual player, moment or tactic in each round, something that stands out among all the action. The first edition of this will be Melbourne Victory’s Jade Tam.

It can sometimes be hard to write about central defenders. Except for an occasional spectacular clearance, they rarely make the highlight reel. If everything goes right,  a team keeps it shape and the tactics work, they can go relatively unnoticed.

But Tam was excellent at the back for Victory as they held on to  a 1-0 lead few neutrals expected them to have so early. Victory had to defend from the 15th minute against a Bulleen team with weapons on the pitch and bench, and Tam was crucial to their success on Saturday.

The clean sheet hints at everything going right for Victory, but although they were int control for the first 40 minutes, Bulleen started to work their way into the game and it felt like a goal was inevitable. Tam was able to clean up several chances before they became threats and reovered well when the likes of Maja Markovski and Ashley Jordan looked like they had broken free.

Her composure on the ball, helped Victory build from the back, and her long passing stretched the Bulleen defence, keeping them alert to Victory’s dangerous wingers.

This is not a team short on leadership, or experience despite their youthful lineup, but beating Bulleen on day one was still a big task for this team. The Lions are rarely held goalless, and Bulleen threw everything they had at Victory, but the defence held strong and Tam barely put a foot wrong under pressure at the back.

She’s a centre back that makes you feel calm and that helped Victory play some very impressive football.

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Meet the Dutch contenders: five teams, three UWCL spots

By Jan-Kees Joosse (17/1/26)

Above: FC Twente and Ajax locked in battle. Photo: Pro Shots NL.

Snow and icy pitches disrupted this weekend’s Eredivisie action. HERA United vs AZ was abandoned halfway through, after earlier cancellations of Utrecht vs Excelsior and Ajax vs NAC due to expected snowfall. In the end, only three matches reached the final whistle.

The toughest conditions were in Eindhoven, where even pitch heating couldn’t withstand the heavy snowfall. Yet PSV’s perseverance in those circumstances showed real maturity in a top clash against surprise package PEC Zwolle.

As the race tightens, it’s time to separate ambition from readiness in the battle for Champions League qualification. The snow may have frozen this round of fixtures, but the race for UWCL football is heating up.

Five teams are pushing for three UWCL qualification places:
FC Twente, Ajax, Feyenoord, PEC Zwolle, and PSV.

Thanks to three years of consistent European performances from FC Twente and Ajax, the Netherlands climbed from ninth to seventh in the UEFA coefficient rankings. As a result, the Eredivisie will have three teams entering the UWCL qualifiers next season.

But which three truly deserve those spots?

Feyenoord

Feyenoord deserve credit for their honesty. After their 1-1 draw against ADO Den Haag on Sunday, head coach Jessica Torny admitted her side is not yet ready to compete for the title. I agree.

They haven’t beaten any of the other title contenders. Two draws against PSV and narrow defeats to Ajax and FC Twente show progress – but mathematically and mentally, you cannot afford dropped points against teams like ADO if you haven’t taken points from direct rivals.

Still, Feyenoord are clearly the best of the rest. Their well-embedded playing style and stability in staffing show promise for a first real European adventure. I can see them doing well in Europe.

However, if they want to survive the qualifiers, they need more quality up front. A clinical finisher like Vivianne Miedema – who has expressed interest in ending her career at Feyenoord – would transform this team. But they cannot rely on something extraordinary happening. They must act decisively in the summer transfer window.

PEC Zwolle

I wouldn’t give PEC Zwolle the benefit of the doubt – yet.

There are simply too many “firsts” to feel secure about European readiness. It’s Gert Peter de Gunst’s first season as a head coach at this level. No player in the squad has experience playing two-legged European ties. The club also lacks a UEFA-approved women’s stadium.

Their results show strong coaching and tremendous potential in a young squad. But mentally, I don’t think they’re ready for Europe. The 3-0 loss to PSV showed the difference in maturity. PSV handled the snow and the pressure; PEC looked like they just wanted the final whistle.

This season should be a foundation. They would be wise to generate transfer revenue and continue building – perhaps literally – so this surge is more than a one-season wonder.

PSV

PSV are making a serious effort to elevate their women’s team. Investment from the men’s side – currently thriving under Peter Bosz – is clearly trickling down.

Experienced signings like Cayman and Shanice van de Sanden add leadership, while the club has also retained key international talents such as Nina Nijstad, Riola Xhemaili, and Chimera Ripa. Keeping players in their early-to-mid twenties signals ambition and financial commitment.

Their European campaign this season has been bumpy – heavy defeats mixed with big wins – but those experiences matter. They’ve built resilience.

The win over PEC Zwolle in extreme weather conditions was telling. Through slippery snow and freezing temperatures, PSV kept their focus on the bigger picture: win today, and Europe comes closer. Xhemaili, Ripa, and Van de Sanden showed a mentality edge over their opponents.

Given the level of investment, PSV owe it to themselves to make Europe count. And this time, not just participate – but succeed.

FC Twente

Despite their 5-1 victory over SC Heerenveen, it was an emotional day for FC Twente.

Jaimy Ravensbergen scored a hat-trick just hours after learning of her grandmother’s passing. With her family in the stands, she dedicated her first goal to her grandmother before running to embrace her parents in tears. She chose to play – no one forced her – and she played to make her grandmother proud.

Teammate Eva Oude Elberink said afterward: “Only Jaimy can do this.”

That moment reflects what FC Twente stands for: winning – and family. Especially within the women’s team, that collective spirit is part of the culture. When they go behind, they respond together. Time and again, they’ve shown they are a force in this league.

Twente are building toward sustained European recognition. The club has spoken about developing experience cycle by cycle, and that progress is visible. If key players like Ravensbergen stay, a knockout-stage run next season feels realistic. This year, they were unlucky in crucial late moments. Next season, those margins could fall their way.

Ajax

Ajax didn’t play this weekend due to weather conditions, but their long-term situation remains crucial.

I was pleased to see they didn’t sell players in the winter transfer window. After losing more than seven key players over recent seasons, stability is essential.

It’s vital they keep striker Danique Tolhoek and midfielder Danique Noordman. Both are in their early twenties and, alongside goalkeeper Regina van Eijk, have been their most consistent performers.

Ajax can no longer rely solely on youth potential to win titles. Those talents must now be the experienced core. If they continue fielding squads filled with teenagers, inconsistency is inevitable. PSV, PEC Zwolle, and Feyenoord are improving and will punish instability.

If Ajax lose Tolhoek and Noordman, I fear a very difficult season ahead – especially given the upward trajectory of PSV and Feyenoord.

Follow Jan for all the news about Dutch Women’s Football on www.fcleeuwinnen.nl. 

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Ward names settled squad for Girls in Green

By Alyce Collett (17/2/26)

Above: The Republic of Ireland will be looking to continue a strong run of momentum into a very important year of matches. Image: Ireland Football Twitter.

The first squad for the Republic of Ireland for 2026 has been revealed, with not too many surprises in the 23 player squad set to take on France and the Netherlands early next month.

The squad is a settled one, with it being largely the same as the one who upset Belgium to secure promotion to League A for 2026 and the squad who played a behind-closed-doors friendly against Hungary in December.

Courtney Brosnan, Megan Connolly and Leanne Kiernan are all in this squad after missing the Belgium matches with injuries, whilst Connolly and Amber Barrett are also in the squad after not being in the squad for the Hungary game.

Ruesha Littlejohn is also in the squad but her selection has drawn criticism because of her lack of minutes for club side Crystal Palace recently. Speaking to the media after the squad announcement, head coach Carla Ward confirmed that despite the lack of game minutes Littlejohn has been training consistently and that her presence in the squad is vital because she is “critical in terms of the environment and her leadership skills.”

Tara O’Hanlon and Kelly Brady are the two faces from the squad against Hungary who are not in this squad, while there was no room for Erin Healy or Jenna Slattery despite their recent excellent form. Heather Payne also did not make the squad.

The upcoming window is the start of a huge year for the Republic of Ireland, with the world number 27s looking to qualify for their second consecutive World Cup. The Girls in Green first host France at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin on March 3, before travelling to Utrecht to take on the Netherlands four days later.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND SQUAD UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE MARCH 2026

Goalkeepers: Courtney Brosnan, Grace Moloney and Sophie Whitehouse.

Defenders: Katie McCabe, Anna Patten, Caitlin Hayes, Hayley Nolan, Aoife Mannion, Chloe Mustaki and Jessie Stapleton.

Midfielders: Denise O’Sullivan, Megan Connolly, Lucy Quinn, Ruesha Littlejohn, Tyler Toland, Marissa Sheva and Jamie Finn.

Forwards: Abbie Larkin, Kyra Carusa, Amber Barrett, Saoirse Noonan, Leanne Kiernan and Emily Murphy.

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Asian Cup Preview: South Korea

Above: The South Korean women’s national team lines up. Image: Yonhap.

By Genevieve Henry (17/2/26).

The South Korean Women’s National Team, known as Taegeuk Nangja (Taegeuk Ladies) are ready to compete in their 15th Asian Cup and will be looking to earn their first-ever trophy in the competition. Drawn into Group A, alongside Australia, Iran, and the Philippines, South Korea may not have the easiest path to victory. 

One of the stronger teams in Asia, South Korea has a few prominent players and plenty of impressive history under their belt. Recent results have been a mixed bag, including a 5-0 loss to the Netherlands and 1-1 tie with Wales– but against Asian opponents they have fared quite well. South Korea held both Japan and China to draws, beat Thailand, Uzbekistan, India, and Chinese Taipei, and only lost to Australia in a two-game series in April.

In late January, members of the South Korea team sent a statement to their federation threatening to boycott the Asian Cup for “harsh and unreasonable” conditions, especially relating to travel and accommodation. The statement was sent in September and outlined that the team would not participate in the tournament if the federation didn’t respond by October 17. The issue was supposedly solved in early February.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Kim Min-jeong (Incheon Hyundai Steel Red Angels), Ryu Ji-soo (Sejong Sportstoto), Woo Seo-bin (Seoul WFC)

Defenders: Kim Hye-ri (Suwon FC), Jang Sel-gi (Gyeongju KHNP), Choo Hyo-joo (Ottawa Rapid), Kim Jin-hui (Gyeongju KHNP), Ko Yoo-jin (Incheon Hyundai Steel Red Angels), Noh Jin-young (Mungyeong Sangmu), Shin Na-yeong (Brooklyn FC), Lee Min-hwa (Hwacheon KSPO)

Midfielders: Ji So-yun (Suwon FC), Choe Yu-ri (Suwon FC), Kang Chae-rim (Montreal Roses), Lee Eun-young (Gangjin Swans), Mun Eun-ju (Hwacheon KSPO), Kim Shin-ji (Rangers), Kim Min-ji (Seoul WFC), Jung Min-young (Ottawa Rapid), Park Soo-jeong (AC Milan), Song Jae-eun (Gangjin Swans), Park Hye-jeong (Incheon Hyundai Steel Red Angels)

Forwards: Son Hwa-yeon (Gangjin Swans), Casey Phair (Angel City), Choi Yoo-jung (Hwacheon KSPO), Jeon Yu-gyeong (Molde)

Head Coach:
Above: Shin Sang-woo speaks to the media. Image: Yonhap.

Shin Sang-woo, who took the reins as head coach in 2024, has a long history as a player and coach in South Korea. He played professionally from 1999 to 2011 before starting his journey as a coach in 2010. He coached WK League clubs Changnyeong WFC and Icheon Daekyo before its disbandment in 2017, as well as being the assistant coach at others. His most recent job was as the assistant coach for men’s K League 1 side Gimcheon Sangmu. This is his first experience in international football and certainly his most high-profile gig. He is contracted until 2028.

Asian Cup History:

Although they have racked up 14 appearances at the Asian Cup, South Korea are yet to bag a victory. They came closest in the latest edition in 2022, where they beat out Australia on their run to the final. 

How They Qualified:

South Korea qualified automatically as runners-up in the 2022 edition, their best run ever.

Strengths:

South Korea has been typically strong against both lower and higher-ranked opponents with adaptable tactics. Against teams like Australia and Japan, South Korea are comfortable to sit back and defend for long stretches and prove lethal on the counter attack. However, they can also dominate less experienced teams while maintaining possession and high pressure.

Development Areas:

South Korea does not have a very deep talent pool, with few players overseas in top leagues and a domestic league still in development. Due to the WK League’s semi-pro status, many players have to juggle careers outside of football, similar to the A-League Women. 

South Korea is also not known for being high-scoring, their excellence lying more in the midfield and defence. Especially against top opponents, South Korea doesn’t often score consistently or through many avenues. Significantly, they only have four players listed as forwards in their squad, which will be a concern if any are injured.

Key Players:
Above: Ji So-yun waves to fans at the World Cup. Image: Suwon FC.

South Korea’s top scorer and most capped player is Ji So-yun, who just relocated back to South Korea to compete for Suwon FC. The 35-year old has 171 caps and 74 goals for South Korea. Ji is best known for time in Chelsea colors, where she played for 8 years, scoring 37 goals and making 124 appearances. She is often regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world. Notably, it was her goal that sent South Korea to the semifinals of the 2022 edition of the Asian Cup, knocking out Australia. 

Choe Yu-ri anchors the midfield alongside Ji. The 31-year old is one of the most capped members of the squad and has 13 goals. Her defensive contributions are important in giving Ji the freedom to roam and attack. Choe also plays for Suwon Fc alongside Ji, making the partnership the most critical among the squad.

35-year old defender Kim Hye-ri captains South Korea, leading from the back. With 136 caps, she is one of the most experienced players in the team and maintains the side’s defense solidity with her leadership. Kim has spent the majority of her career in South Korea, playing for Seoul WFC and Hyundai Steel Red Angels, but moved to play for Wuhan Jiangda in China in 2025. In her youth career, Kim captained the U-20 team to finish third in the 2010 U-20 Women’s World Cup, becoming the first South Korean team to finish as high as third in a FIFA tournament.

One to Watch:

18-year old Casey Yu-Jin Phair burst onto the scene in 2023, becoming the youngest player to ever appear in the men’s or women’s World Cup. Her performances at the U-17 level had drawn notice, scoring 8 goals in 9 matches. The forward then signed to Angel City in 2024, where she made few appearances. Although Angel City signed her to a three-year deal, she was loaned out to Swedish club Djurgården. She is now back at Angel City. Her best performances have largely come in the South Korean kit, scoring 4 goals in 17 appearances for her country. She is also the first multiracial player to represent South Korea at a World Cup. 

Success Would Be:

If South Korea makes it to the semifinals, it will be a small victory. While they are certainly one of the stronger teams in the tournament, it could be the luck of the draw that determines their fate. 

Prediction:

Quarterfinal exit, but win the play-off to continue in their quest for World Cup qualification. This is a strong side, but without the level of high-profile players that the other top teams in Asia have, South Korea will need excellent tactics. There’s not much room for error in this tournament, as South Korea reminded Australia in 2023.

Fixtures:

1st March — South Korea vs Iran, 7pm, Gold Coast Stadium

5th March — Philippines vs South Korea, 1pm, Gold Coast Stadium

8th March — Australia vs South Korea, 8pm, Stadium Australia

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Rangers continue fine run of form with Partick cup demolition

Partick Thistle 0-8 Rangers

By Gethin Thurlow for Impetus at Petershill Park (16/2/26)

Above: Rangers celebrate with captain Nicola Docherty afetr she scored Photo: Rangers FC

Rangers looked imperious all over the pitch as they dominated Partick Thistle in the Scottish Cup quarter final in Glasgow. With shining performances all over the pitch, this side looks like a Rangers team ready to retain that cup double – and potentially challenge for the SWPL title too.

The Teams

With a place at Hampden Park and a Scottish cup semi final on the cards, Leanne Crichton named a full strength team at Petershill, facing a Partick Thistle building form in the league. Callie Brookshire continued to start, after her late heriocs a few weeks ago at this ground against City. Camille Lafaix, finally back up to full fitness has been enjoying a good run in the team and that continued this afternoon.

Hosts Partick Thistle meanwhile had legendary midfielder Jo Love absent, and tried a slightly unusual plan to replicate her control and reading of the game in the defensive midfield role. Right back Rosie Slater moved in there, with usual left back Abbi Handley starting on the right of a back four. Imogen Longcake started as the striker – an area Partick have struggled all season.

These changes didn’t tighten up the Partick defence early on. Within three minutes, Jodi McCleary’s cross into Katie Wilkinson bobbled around a bit before the English striker calmly pushed the ball home to give Rangers the lead.

The Jags barely put an attack together before the score was doubled. Lafaix’s ball into the box was headed out, and Nicola Docherty struck it powerfully with her left foot. Jeni Currie got a hand to it, but that only pushed it onto the inside of the post, before bouncing in.

A couple of minutes later and the lead was three. Callie Brookshire crossed to the right, with January SWPL player of the month Eilidh Austin beating a defender and finding Laura Berry in miles of space on the six yard line. She composed herself, then smashed the ball past Currie, already surpassing what Glasgow City did against Stenhousemuir within 15 minutes.

Unlike that City game, Partick Thistle did attack and get the ball into their opposition’s half, but it didn’t garner any better goal chances. Longcake only had hopeful long balls to feed on most of the day, and Rangers always recovered in numbers, giving Thistle no time or space to work with.

While there was more space provided and some really poor defending on display, Rangers’ attack looked brilliant. Dynamic movement around the box, high-quality balls delivered from Brookshire on the left and Austin on the right and a midfield running rings around Partick will please Crichton so much.

The way McLearly, Cruft and Lafaix were able to dribble, pass and sprint past Partick’s midfield just gave them the freedom to completely manipulate the game, picking out killer balls into the box, recycling possession when required and making their own chances on occasion. After a quarter-of-an-hour break from scoring Rangers fancied a fourth.

They played a trick freekick between McLearly and Brookshire, finding the Greek winger wide again, ready to cause more chaos. This time, her cross fizzed all the way to Eilidh Austin, who deflected back across the face of goal. Waiting there was Kathy Hill, who with her back to goal, touched the ball over her head and into the net.

There was no break between the fourth and fifth however, as Eilidh Austin, out of position in the middle of the pitch, played a textbook through-ball for Berry, who rolled it below Currie first time. Somehow, the scoreline didn’t change again before the half time whistle.

Nothing changed at the break, as Partick continued to defend poorly while Rangers looked absolutely incredible. Camille Lafaix put on the sort of display Rangers fans have been crying out for the last year, ducking and diving between defenders and playing brilliant balls. The standout was a through ball delicately placed in the path of Quinty Sabajo early in the second half, an absolute defence-splitter that ended up being cleared after Sabajo passed wide.

On a similar through ball, this time from a closer range, Lafaix over-hit the ball as Jeni Currie rushed out and easily got there before the incoming Wilkinson. However, instead of grabbing the ball, she somehow pushed it back out into play, so that when Wilkinson played a simple ball back to Berry she had an empty net to put the ball into, completing her hatrick.

It was the usual suspects involved in the seventh goal. Austin, putting pressure on the defence forced- then won the subsequent high ball, heading to Berry. This time she decided to reverse the last goal and passed to Wilkinson, who rarely would miss the target from inside the box like that.

A triple change, the hosts would’ve hoped might bring them some rest bite, but it did not initially. After Brogan Hay was brought on – encouraging as she returns from a long-term injury – alongside young player Sophie Black and the ever-present Mia McAulay, Rangers won a corner. Jodi McLearly put a great ball in and it was headed by centre back Leah Eddie.

Player of the Match Camille Lafaix

There was so many different world class performances out there today: Laura Berry, Callie Brookshire, Eilidh Austin and Jodi McLeary, but for me it is Lafaix that comes out on top. The midfielder was truly back at her best level today. She was just doing whatever she wanted out there, popping up across the pitch, winning fouls, getting assists, advancing the ball.

With the American midfielder coming such form, the prospect of facing Rangers twice post-split will be a scary one for every SWPL team.

Where this leaves the teams

It was a very poor performance from Partick Thistle. On the same ground two hours, a Championship side had fought all game long, limiting Scotland’s best team to just 2 goals. Within 15 minutes, Partick were already three goals down. While they might have offered more going forward than Stenhousemuir, they also handed Rangers a 90 minute free trial to access any part of the Petershill pitch they wanted.

While anything short of a win would have been extremely disappointing for Leanne Crichton, but the manner of it will be satisfying. Winning 8-0 is a step above those 3-0 and 4-0’s, and it carry’s on a pattern for her team since the winter break.

8-0 was only the score at half time against Hamilton, while 4 points from Hibs and City is as good as you can hope for. After an understandably shaky start under the new manager, the team have settled now and seem like a good shout to be the closest challengers for the title this year, while they also try to retain both cups again.

TEAMS: PARTICK THISTLE (4-1-4-1): Currie, Handley, Falconer (c), Ferguson, McCuloch, Slater, English, McAllister, King, Donaldson, Longcake. Substitutes: Rennie (for King 49′), Syrijanen (for Longcake 61′), Hollis (for Donaldson 61′), Fraser (for McCuloch 72′)

RANGERS (4-2-3-1): Fife, Austin, Eddie, Hill, Docherty (c), McLeary, Cruft, Berry, Lafaix, Brookshire, Wilkinson. Substitutes: Sabajo (for Cruft 46′), Rafferty (for Hill 46′) McAulay (for Wilkinson 60′), Hay (for Brookshire 60′), Black (for Lafaix 60′)

Scorer: 0-1 Wilkinson 3′, 0-2 Docherty 10′, 0-3 Berry 13′, 0-4 Hill 28′, 0-5 Berry 33′, 0-6 Berry 48′, 0-7 Wilkinson 57′, 0-8 Eddie 70′.

Lacey Heys: WA youngster on her experience at the Australian School Girls’ tour of the UK

Exclusive by Ben Gilby (16/2/26)

Above: The All Australian School Girls squad lining up along with opponents Cardiff City during their UK tour last month. Photo: Emma Heys Facebook.

Three young Western Australians, Lacey Heys, Klaudia Houlis, and Hannah Reynolds recently returned home from the UK after being part of the All Australian School Girls team that played a seven match tour, and Heys speaks in depth to Impetus about the experience of a lifetime that she and her team-mates enjoyed.

The squad were selected as a result of the School Sport Australia tournament in Brisbane, where players were selected based on their performance during five matches in Queensland.

Due to the nature of the team’s make-up, there were no opportunities to train or bond together before boarding the long flight to the UK, but, Heys outlined that the squad were able to have two training sessions upon arrival prior to their first match.

Above: The Western Australian contingent of the All Australian School Girls’ squad – left to right: Klaudia Houlis, Lacey Heys, and Hannah Reynolds. Photo: Emma Heys Facebook,

The UK has experienced a very wet and generally mild winter, but the Australian team had the misfortune to arrive in the one extremely cold spell that the nation experienced, and it is something that Heys looks back on ruefully.

“When we weren’t playing, yes it was very much a shock, however I prefer to play in cold weather, so I really enjoyed it!” she smiled.

Among the teams that the squad faced were Welsh Colleges, Swansea City, Cardiff City, Wrexham, Crystal Palace, and Arsenal. The Australians produced a superb set of performances and results.

Above: Lacey Heys in action for the Australian Schoolgirls side during their January tour of the UK. Photo: Instagram.

“We won all our games, the first four were very easy – we won them by at least eight goals, however the last two games against Crystal Palace and Arsenal were better match ups.

“We won against Crystal Palace 4-0 and against Arsenal 2-1. Collectively, we worked really well together and gelled quickly which I believe is because the talent in the team was so strong that our game understanding was high which made it easier for us to play with each other. 

“Individually, I feel as though I played well, the first few games weren’t much of a challenge but I believe I still played to a high standard and the final games I was very happy with my performances. Overall, I scored six or seven goals and assisted five, I believe.”

Any tour such as this is, though, about more than results on the pitch – it’s about experiencing life changing opportunities, and Heys had plenty of those.

Above: Lacey Heys with her captain’s armband on the All Australian School Girls’ tour of the UK. Photo: Emma Heys Facebook.

“There were a lot of exciting experiences off the pitch but it was also important to stay disciplined and make sure our main focus was always on preparing properly and performing well in games. It was really important to interact and talk with the other teams and their coaching staff to learn things.”

In terms of the biggest learning from the tour, Heys identified that “When I’m playing with such great players, I am able to find what I like most about how they play and try to implement that into how I play.”

Heys is now back in Western Australia and preparing for the new NPLW WA season. Having been part of the Football West Academy set-up for six years, she has joined a Fremantle City side who are looking to push into Top Four Cup contention for 2026. With the pre-season Night Series tournament just underway, the youngster has set herself some targets for the coming months.

“I’m looking to have a good start to the season with Fremantle to get ourselves on the front foot for the rest of the season, and develop myself as a player to hopefully get recognised outside of the NPLW WA.”

(c) Impetus 2026

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