“It’s a Make or Break”:Victory Prepare for Phoenix Challenge

Above: Taylor Ray speaks to the media. Image: Melbourne Victory.

By Isabelle Campbell (20/2/26)

Melbourne Victory move from a meeting with the league leaders to a clash with the side directly beneath them. After holding first-placed Melbourne City to a draw last weekend, Victory now turn their attention to Wellington Phoenix, who sit second on the ladder and remain firmly in the title conversation. 

For assistant coach Johno Clemente, the stalemate with City provided reassurance in key areas, particularly defensively. Keeping the league’s top side scoreless was significant, but the internal focus has quickly shifted toward sharpening the team’s edge in front of goal.

“We showed a good account of ourselves against Melbourne City, a clean sheet is something we’ve definitely been looking for in recent weeks,” Clemente said. “We wanted to get the three points and we probably didn’t create enough in the final third. So that’s definitely been the review this week of how we can get more chances in the final third to get three points against Wellington.”

Wellington’s consistency this season has not gone unnoticed, particularly their strong sense of footballing identity amidst what has been a difficult season on the injury front.

“Wellington are a good side. Credit to Bev [Priestman] and her coaching staff,” Clemente said. “They’ve had a couple of injuries, but they’ve replaced them quite well. Their playing style is quite clear and tactically they’re quite sound.”

Encouragingly for Victory, the competitive dynamic within the squad continues to drive performance standards.

“Everyone who was available for the city game is available,” Clemente said. “We’re fit, firing and ready to go. We’ve actually had a good week on the track. Everyone’s been understanding of the situation, how competitive it is to get into our squad.”

“If you have a look at our bench, there are some big names on our bench, and they’re all itching to get into starting 11. So it’s been good for the competition in the group.”

That depth presents tactical options, particularly with Chelsea Blissett now fully fit and providing the ability to move Alana Jančevski further up the pitch, a position she’s more than competent in.

“Alana is such a talented player, and I think she can play anywhere,” Clemente said. “Obviously, she played left back for us last season, and no one would have pictured how well she’s done at left back. But also, sometimes we do a disservice playing her so deep, because she can play as a ten, play as a winger.”

“Speaking to some of the fans around the ground, they want to see her a little bit more attacking. And as I mentioned before, we want to create a little bit more in the final third, and with someone like Alana, she’s got a little bit of X Factor, so we could definitely look to see her a little bit higher up, but I wouldn’t rule her out playing left back as well. I think she’s dangerous, no matter where she is.”

Clemente also reflected on Laura Pickett’s progression, having had a front row seat to her journey through the club’s pathway programs to now watching her become an indispensable part of the squad.

“Some great development from her, as a person and as a player. I’ve coached Laura since she was about 15 years old at the club in our Pathways programs, to see what she’s come through, and all of her success in recent years, and how she’s kind of cemented the starting spot. It’s due to her character and all her hard work.”

“There’s not many people who actually work harder than her. Especially in the gym, and she’s gonna be pretty happy, I’m saying this, but she’s a machine in the gym, and she’s continuing to work on herself, and her football’s come a long way. So I’m super excited and proud to see how far she’s come.”

With the Asian Cup fast approaching, and with it a short A-League hiatus, the timing of this fixture adds another layer of importance.

“We’re hoping to get a few more players back in the Asian Cup break, but at the moment, we’re just looking day by day and week by week,” Clemente said. “So ideally, come two, three weeks away and we can get some players back, we’ll be buzzing with that, but it is a little bit of an interesting break. So I think once we get the win tomorrow night, everyone will be in a pretty good mood and happy to have a couple weeks to take the edge off.”

For Taylor Ray, the draw with the competition leaders felt like a performance that aligned more closely with the group’s expectations of themselves. While the finishing touch remains an area for refinement, the overall cohesion and control signalled progress.

“Honestly, I think that’s one of our better team performances throughout the season,” Ray said. “City is obviously a very dominant team, their playing style, possession and defending, and obviously they have some top players that can score goals.”

“For us, I think it’s the best we’ve done in playing out, building up. We’re just lacking that attacking side and creating chances, but we’ve been working on that throughout the week, and I think with time, which it is our time, we can come through for tomorrow.”

Navigating a tightly contested ladder position has created pressure, but Ray views that environment as something capable of elevating standards rather than hindering them.

“This season Victory has been in a very uncomfortable position. However, I think sometimes being uncomfortable can make us step up and bring that intensity more for tomorrow. It’s a hard one, but we take that on board as a positive. Now we just need to get the three points tomorrow, which is really crucial for the rest of our season.”

Throughout the season thus far, there has been a lot of talk about the finer details that just hadn’t yet clicked for Victory, but Ray believes it may have happened now.

“In all honesty, I think it kind of clicked last weekend. City is number one for a reason, and we have such great depth on our team, the substitutes, they all should be starting as well. We have some great youngsters coming through and a lot of experience.”

“I think it’s just finding the chemistry and that clicking moment to come all together,” Ray said. “We’ve gotten a lot closer off the field, and I think it showed on the field last week.”

Wellington’s adaptability presents a different tactical test, requiring focus on Victory’s own identity while remaining aware of the threats posed.

“Wellington, have a very different kind of formation,” Ray said. “They like to switch it up based on the other team they’re versing. It means they’re very versatile at how they want to play. That’s something we kind of can’t focus too much on and just focus on our own game. They have some great assets, like [Pia] Vlok the youngster coming through, Brook Nunn, she’s a very fiery, competitive person from previous experience.”

Ray also spoke about Kayla Morrison’s recent history making, 100-game milestone and the influence the captain continues to have across the group.

“She’s a fantastic friend. She made me feel so welcome personally when I came to Victory, and she deserves it more than anyone I know. I think she’s a great leader, role model, and a very big inspiration. That’s kind of something we can also draw from to keep continuing to try and work hard and be there for each other. So much respect for Kay. I think she’s someone who can really bring this team to finals and we can build off her kind of inspiration.”

From first to second in consecutive weeks, Victory’s schedule offers little margin for complacency but plenty of opportunity to turn their season around.

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Priestman & Barry: It’s a great chance to get back to being ‘us’

by Ben Gilby (19/2/26)

Above: Wellington Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman speaking to the media today ahead of the team’s trip to Melbourne Victory. Image: Wellington Phoenix.

Wellington Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman and captain Mackenzie Barry have welcomed the team’s quick turnaround from last weekend’s defeat to Central Coast Mariners at a wild and windy Wellington as they prepare to face Melbourne Victory tomorrow as a “great chance” to “get back on the horse.”

Whilst a Friday quick turnaround fixture in Victoria could be seen as a major challenge for the New Zealanders, Priestman is fully focused on the positive opportunity it brings to show a response to Sunday’s disappointments.

“I said to the players, you have just got to get back on the horse and (having a game now) it’s better that then having the international break. It’s a great chance to get back to ‘us’.”

“It’s very easy (to make excuses) – ‘I’m tired’, ‘It’s a tight turnaround’ – no excuses, give us everything you’ve got, and in the international window, you’ve got a group that go off to represent their countries, and a group here who will try and keep fresh, but also push as well, because we’ve got a chance to make history after the international break (by making Finals for the first time).”

Barry agreed, emphasising how she feels that: “A quick turnaround is always great after a loss, so you can just review, move on, and focus on the next game.”

The review of the Mariners defeat, both feel has led to significant learnings for all. It was a match played in extreme weather conditions with howling wind and driving rain. Priestman likes what she has seen in response from her squad.

“The players did a really good job at unpicking that game,” the Nix boss said. “I think there were some really good learnings, not only tactically, but I think mentally as well. Do you go into that second half thinking that with the wind it’s going to be easier? Actually, if we’d continued in the same vein as we played the first half, I think it would have been a different game…I was really impressed with how reflective the players were.”

Whilst Wellington is famed for it’s weather conditions, what Barry and her teammates faced against the Mariners is not something she will forget in a hurry, as she ruefully smiled and added with a heavy slice of understatement.

“It was a crazy game. We had a lot of cold bodies, a lot of sore bodies. It was different, but we’re refreshed.”

All focus now turns to tomorrow night, and another chance for Wellington Phoenix to claim yet another piece of history in what has been an outstanding campaign for the club – a first win in Melbourne against Jeff Hopkins’ Victory side.

Above: Wellington Phoenix captain Mackenzie Barry speaking to the media today. Image: Wellington Phoenix.

Priestman knows her team are more than capable of doing so, if they use the foundations of earlier in the season and use the building blocks of the learning points from last weekend’s defeat.

“Picking up points on the road – it’s about defending well, working hard, and actually performing across 90 minutes. If you do that, and you look historically across our away games where we’ve picked up points, what comes to mind is Canberra (where the Nix won 2-0 with goals in the 86th and 96th minutes) – you know, late in the game. Just stay switched on, defend well, and I do think we have the depth in the squad across 90 minutes to go and pick up some points.

“However, what I do know is Melbourne Victory are a top team, right…they’ve got great experience, and it will be a tough game…We’re going to have to go another level. I felt at some moments of that Central Coast game that they wanted it more than us, and that can’t be the case. We’ve got to match and go above and beyond a team who on their home turf and who are fighting to be in a higher position, and probably deserve to be – they are going to come out with all guns blazing.

“…They have got a lot – they’ve got (Holly) Furphy, who has been a big contributor for them, they’ve got (Kennedy) White, they’ve got (Rhianna) Pollicina, who can make something happen out of nothing. They have a lot of threat, and we’ve got to respect that.

“…We are going to do everything in our power – I’ve seen it in the players’ eyes this week. They are tuned in, dialled in, we’re there to take points.”

Barry is also full of belief that the Nix can come away from Melbourne with points if they keep their focus, beliefs, and play to their strengths.

“They (Victory) are a great team, they are pretty consistent in what they do. It means we know their strengths, but we also know their weaknesses,” the Wellington captain said.

“It’s another goal of ours. It would be amazing to get our first victory there…we just want to get those points, and we know we can definitely do it.

“We’ve got to keep pushing and keep getting those clean sheets because the goal difference really matters on the tight table at this point…We’ve got a good thing going (in terms of defensive partnerships and understanding with Ellie Walker and Marisa van der Meer). We’re used to each other now. We know what we need from each other, our communication is great. I’m really proud of Marisa and Ellie – we’ve adapted really well to each other, and everything is pretty smooth.”

Priestman ended the media event by outlining some tough injury news for Lara Wall, who tore her calf in the game against Central Coast Mariners, ruling her out of tomorrow’s game, and New Zealand’s forthcoming World Cup qualifiers in the Soloman Islands.

“She’ll be out for an extended period. It’s not season ending by any means, but I’m gutted for her…she’s versatile, and she’s got her head screwed on. Tactically, she understands the game. She’s a big loss for us, but it’s an opportunity for people to step up.”

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Charlton snatch late point at Ipswich to extend lead at the top

Ipswich Town 1-1 Charlton Althetic

By Ben Tattoo for Impetus at the JobServe Stadium (19/2/26)

Above: Ipswich celebrate after going 1-0 up Photo: Ipswich FC

Fearless Ipswich Town held top of the league Charlton Athletic, with Gillian Kenney’s late equaliser cancelling out Paige Peake’s well-taken penalty at the JobServe Stadium. Both sides shrugged off the bitterly cold wind and rain to play out an entertaining draw, with Charlton salvaging their unbeaten league record in the process.

The Teams

Ipswich made a whopping nine new signings in the January Transfer window, and handed full debuts to two of them, with Kit Graham starting in midfield and Ava Baker lining up on the left wing.

Lucy O’Brien also came into the side to start at number 10, with Colette Cavanagh, Lucy Ashworth-Clifford and Natasha Thomas dropping to the bench.

Charlton were unchanged from their 4-2 win over Durham and lined up in their familiar 4-4-2 shape. Lucy Fitzgerald led the line with Kenney after scoring four goals in her previous three games.

An entertaining draw

Ipswich made early inroads, playing through the midfield several times and forcing a couple of corners. Ipswich were trying to keep the ball on the ground, while the away side were prepared to look more direct and win second balls.

Charlton came the close to opening in the scoring in the 10th minute, when Natalia Negri dropped an in-swinging corner in the six-yard box and Town were fortunate to scramble the ball away.

Baker then weaved her way into the Athletic box before snapping a shot at goal that was well blocked. The home side kept the pressure on and got their rewards when O’Brien was felled in the box by Elisha N’Dow after the Addicks had failed to clear the ball

Town had to wait for their chance to open the scoring, with Karin Muya needing treatment for an injury, but Peake wasn’t phased by the delay, confidently tucking the ball into the bottom corner, with Sophie Whitehouse diving the wrong way.

Town continued to apply the pressure and Graham fired a crisp shot from range that flew wide of the post.

Baker was causing all sorts of problems down the left and in the 32nd minute, she showed her attacking variety, launching a dangerous cross from deep, but Rhianna Dean failed to get a meaningful connection on her shot.

Charlton countered quickly and with their best move of the match so far. Muya played a slick one-two with Charlotte Newsham before seeing her goal bound drive was blocked heroically by Megan Wearing.

Charlton should have been level after creating two excellent chances right before half time.

First, Fitzgerald headed Newsham’s cross powerfully against the crossbar with Negri beaten, then Muya was slipped into the box by Kenney, but the midfielder could only find the side netting from an excellent position.  

Both sides made changes at half-time, with Ipswich introducing another new signing into the mix as Princess Ademiluyi, on loan from Gotham, replaced Dean. Chalton’s change came at the back, with Kiera Skeels replacing Lucia Lombato.

As the second half began Charlton showed their intent early on, with Kenney finding space in the box but her low shot was deflected wide by Negri.

In the 58th minute huge opportunity for Ipswich came and went. Maria Boswell delivered a dangerous ball into the box and Ademiluyi beat the advancing Whitehouse to the ball, but the striker headed wide.

Ipswich threw on Jamaica international Thomas for O’Brien as they shifted formation to a 4-4-2 and looked to get the ball forward more quickly.

They were causing havoc from the right-hand side, and another good ball from Boswell found Thomas who headed over.

Ademiluyi and Thomas then used their pace and power to great effect, linking up well down the left to put the Charlton defence on the back foot. This move led to Sophie Peskett receiving the ball centrally, and the winger jinked inside a defender before seeing her rasping shot tipped over by Whitehouse.

The visitors finally began claw their way back into the game as manager Karen Hills made a raft of changes to bring on fresh legs.

First, Emma Bissel, on for Muya, delivered a tantalising cross that eluded everyone and was gratefully gathered by Negri, then the impressive Sophie Bradley drilled a shot just wide from range.

Eventually their pressure paid off. Bradley was again influential, driving towards the right flank before releasing Newsham behind the defensive line and her deadly cross was headed into the bottom corner by Kenney.

Ipswich attacked immediately and had the ball in the net just a minute later, but Ademiluyi’s goal was ruled out due to her handling the ball before she shot.

Wearing’s late injury slowed down what would have been a frantic finish, and both sides had to settle for a draw.

Analysis

It was always going to be a tactically interesting game between two of the most counter-attacking sides in the division who both prefer for the opposition to have the majority of the ball. In their past three matches combined, Ipswich had averaged 34% possession. Charlton had averaged 36%.

Despite the home side lying in 11th place and the away side topping the table, a novice observer would not have been able to tell which was which.

This was Ipswich’s fourth league game unbeaten under new boss David Wright and the Blues look full of confidence. What they lacked though, was a cutting edge in front of goal, with just two of the home side’s 10 shots hitting the target.

Charlton have by far the league’s meanest defence, Peake’s penalty was just the 10th goal Athletic have conceded in the WSL in 16 matches, but Ipswich worked the ball into dangerous positions time and time again and if they keep performing like this, they stand every chance of staying up this season.

For the Addicks, the point puts them nine points clear of second placed Birmingham City, who have a game in hand. With just seven games remaining, they look comfortable favourites to get promoted to the WSL.

Player of the game: Katie Bradley

In an even game, where few players stood out, Bradley was a driving force for Athletic and she was essential for their ball progression. She played a crucial role in the build up to the equaliser and her 8 /15 duals won, shows her huge contribution to her teams’ defensive efforts. 

TEAMS: IPSWICH TOWN (4-2-3-1): Negri, Boswell (c), Peake, Wearing, Roe, Graham, Mitchell, O’Brien, Peskett, Baker, Dean. Substitutes: Ademiluyi (for Dean 45’), Meena (for Graham 59’), Thomas (for O’Brien 59’), Ashworth-Clifford (for Baker 70’), Cavanagh (for Mitchell 82’).

Scorer: Peake 18′.

CHARLTON ATHLETIC (4-4-2): Whitehouse (c), Newsham, N’Dow, Lobato, Mason, Hutton, Flannery, Bradley, Muya, Kenney, Fitzgerald. Substitutes: Skeels (for Lobato 45’), Bissell for (Muya 70’), Lockwood (for Flannery 70’), McAteer (for Hutton 82’), Thestrup (for Fitzgerald 82’).

Scorer: Kenney 83’.

Referee: Joanne Horwood.

Attendance: 921

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The Matildas squad: Tactical flexibility, a backup for every position & a view to the future

By Kieran Yap 19/2/26

Above: Kahli Johnson. Photo: Football Australia

The Matildas squad for the Asian Cup has harnessed the potential of Australia’s youth and experience. It is a balanced squad, that has avoided some of the temptations and errors of previous tournaments and provides multiple options and backups.

Australia squads are always contentious, outside of a few locked-in stars, fans will always have strong opinions over about half the selected players. However, Joe Montemurro’s team to take on Asia’s best feels at once safe, and exciting. There are some surprises, but few risks and that is a good thing.

One of the issues that has plagued recent Matildas campaigns for a trophy has been the selection of injured players. That Montemurro has delayed announcing this team until the absolute deadline might indicate that they were giving some players every chance to prove their fitness and in the end, only Teagan Micah is currently listed as injured by her club.

Jamilla Rankin and Charlize Rule have been chosen in defence. This gives Australia two strong options at Right and Left Back. If Steph Catley is used at Centre Back, Rankin could very easily find herself starting, but the selection of Winonah Heatley also means that Catley can shift out to left back while Australia maintains a classy, passing defender in the middle of the four.

Essentially, in defence there are multiple options for every role. Rule/Ellie Carpenter, Rankin/Courtney Nevin and Catley/ Heatley/Catley/Hunt/Kennedy. Injuries at the back can derail even the best of teams, but Australia has good cover with all players except Kennedy being regular starters in Europe.

In midfield, Tameka Yallop misses out through injury. The Brisbane Roar star suffered a severe hamstring tear back in December and was not able to win the race to be fit in time.

It is hard to be a fan of Australian football without being a Yallop fan. But she has rarely been a starter for Australia and even more rarely been used in her best attacking midfield position.

This is heartbreaking for Yallop, particularly because recent national team camps have given her the chance to play in that role, but Joe Montemurro has made a surprising but popular choice in her replacement.

Alex Chidiac is a fan favourite. The two-time Julie Dolan Medallist and current Seria A star with FC Como might not have Yallop’s versatility but can play that attacking midfield or playmaking role as well as anyone. Chidiac is creative, brave on the ball, and an excellent finisher.

Off the bench, or starting, “Chids” is the sort of player than can spark a game, panic defences and entertain crowds. She is loved and feared because of the way she plays, a tenacious, tough footballer with audacity and skill to beat any team. Her selection is only a surprise because she has always been on the fringes of the national team setup for reasons that perplex many observers. Based on footballing merit, she belongs in this squad and can clearly help Australia lift the cup.

There are no real shocks in the rest of the midfield. A mix of Kyra Cooney-Cross, Clare Wheeler and Katrina Gorry should ideally start, but depending on the formation and tactics, Amy Sayer could be a valuable weapon at the attacking point of a midfield diamond or trio.

It remains frankly shocking to look back at the 2023 World Cup and realise that Wheeler received no minutes in that tournament. She was good then, has only gotten better since and can give Australia both stability and drive from a deep midfield position. If we want to see Australia’s attack at their best, Wheeler can provide the foundation for that.

Van Egmond is a player who divides fans, and at club level has not exactly been in career best form. Her cautious style can frustrate supporters, but her continued selection suggests that she is doing exactly what coaches ask of her.

She has almost always performed well in tournaments for Australia, and although her best football might be behind her, she can play most midfield or attacking roles and provide tactical flexibility whether Australia is chasing a goal or defending a lead.

In attack, Montemurro has once again given himself options to replace players with like-for-like alternatives and maintain tactics regardless of injuries, or to change things up if need be.

Kahli Johnson is one of Australia’s brightest rising stars. Her game style is similar to Caitlin Foord’s in that she can play with her back to goal, roll off defender and shoot or cross. Her acceleration makes her a threat in behind, and her finishing is improving, but ever dangerous.

Should Foord be unavailable for a game and Montemurro want to keep the same structure and game-plan, Johnson can slot right in without anybody missing a beat. She is likely to play a big part in the future of The Matildas and even if game time is limited in this tournament, she will have the opportunity to learn of some of the world’s most accomplished forwards.

Remy Siemsen feels like a surprise but probably should not be. She was a regular starter for Kristianstad in Sweden’s top division and has since made the move to Rosengard in the off-season. Siemsen has not always found it easy in Europe, but has stuck it out, improved her game and made herself a fixture at club level.

In terms of what she brings to this Australia side, her goal scoring at international level has not been great, but Siemsen’s hold up and link play can open up spaces for others. She could help the likes of Hayley Raso, or Mary Fowler find themselves one-on-one  with defenders, which spells danger for the opposition.

That brings us to Fowler. Since returning from an ACL injury in rapid time, the young forward has only played a few minute for Manchester City, but is an X-Factor and game-changer of unrivalled quality. Fowler’s qualities are well documented, she’s one of our best players and her availability can help Australia win the tournament, even if she cannot play every game or even start for any. She is an option off the bench that few teams in this competition will have an answer for.

Holly McNamara is The A-League Women’s golden boot leader and is an easy choice. It will be interesting to see how she is deployed, if out wide she offers another alternative to Foord, in the middle, she should be able to trouble most teams in front of goal.

Raso is obviously no surprise, and in the absence of Kerr over the last two years has become Australia’s best and most reliable forward. She is unstoppable at international level.

Michelle Heyman is still the A-League Women’s record scorer and although on the face of this season, other strikers have been in better form, she has a good record at international level.

Heyman has shown good chemistry with the rest of this side and along with Kerr is one of the few players who can score headers from open play. Given how often Australia crosses the ball and the quality at fullback and on the wings, this is a real asset. Her international career looked finished before 2023, now she could possibly end it with a trophy.

Heyman will likely be deployed off the bench, but will almost guarantee that Australia’s emergency plan does not amount to throwing a defender up top.

Of the goalkeepers, Teagan Micah and Mackenzie Arnold are the favourites to start, but Jada Whyman could finally see game-time in the Green and Gold. Micah is currently injured, which is a major concern and a departure from the way the rest of this squad has been chosen, but is Australia’s best goalkeeper, and it is a position that Montemurro does not have much depth to choose from just yet.

The likes of Chloe Lincoln have been in recent camps, but it feels like her time is coming, and next month would have been too soon.

Overall, this is a squad that can lift the Asian Cup, but also has more than one eye on the future. Younger player have forced their way into contention in all areas of the pitch, and that is a good thing for a Matildas squad that appeared to be aging quickly at The Paris Olympics.

Rankin, Rule and Johnson, all played at the 2022 U20 World Cup, while Fowler, Cooney-Cross, Nevin, McNamara and Sayer would have been eligible for it.

This squad selection was always going to be a delicate balance, or trying to win the tournament while making sure that “Golden Generation” do not play on too long as a unit.

There is rejuvenation in this team, but crucially, nobody is really going just for the experience. Every player is capable of impacting games, and every one has earned their spot on merit, current form or what they can add tactically. There are no hopeful or sentimental selections here. Only Micah can be described as a gamble but it is one that must be taken. Australia is flexing its footballing depth across the pitch.

These 26 players can set up in a variety or formations and tactics, and outside of a starting three of Kerr, Foord and Raso, it is hard to really predict what the rest of the first XI will look like. That is a very promising attribute in this squad.

The midfield could be Wheeler as a Six with Gorry and Cooney-Cross ahead, it could be Sayer or Chidiac as attacking midfielders with another sitting behind them.

The defence could have any combination of the players selected. Only Ellie Carpenter can be 100% certain of her status as a starter and her position. Catley and Heatley would make an excellent pairing in the middle, but Catley is also a world class fullback and her delivery from wide can create numerous chances.

Australia’s squad presents a multitude of options, a great capacity to change games and a promising combination of youth and experience. There is a lot of ways this can go right and a plan for anything that can go wrong.

It is time to be excited.

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“One win keeps us in the pack.” Perth Glory’s Stephen Peters and Grace Johnston preview Newcastle Jets Clash

Above: Grace Johnston speaks to the media. Image: Perth Glory.

By Ella McShane (19/2/26)

Perth Glory’s Stephen Peters and young gun Grace Johnston spoke to the media ahead of their match up with Newcastle United for round 18 of the Ninja A-League. Three points separate the respective sides, therefore the common theme of a tight contest is likely to continue in the Hunter Valley with finals football to play for. 

Following a victory and clean sheet against Canberra United at home on Saturday, spirits remain high amongst the squad.

“We just have to take that into next week against Newcastle,” said Johnston. “Finals is the end goal, but the only way to get there, is to take 3 points from every game.”

Heading into the weekend, Peters and Johnston highlighted the importance of harnessing the positive morale from last weeks three points, but also remain  cautious of overconfidence. 

“It’s all mentality, trying not to get too overconfident. I’ve been confident in our abilities and our ability to win, but we have to work on that in training each week and know [Newcastle United’s] strengths as well.”

“They’re a very strong team, very physical team. So we have to incorporate that into our game,” said Johnston.

“Morale wise we are feeling very good. But we are not getting ahead of ourselves, one win keeps us in the pack,” said Peters.

Above: Stephen Peters speaks to the press. Image: Perth Glory.

Looking to the tactics board, a more courageous style of attack has been a clear focus for the Glory in recent weeks. And it paid off on Saturdays clash with Canberra. We asked how Glory are plan on maintaining the more bold approach moving forward. 

 “It’s giving the 3 girls that start the confidence that they can shoot and that’s gonna yield an outcome for them. There was a little bit of that in training again today,” said Peters.

“But it’s also building the combinations. We want to try and settle on some combinations that are working.”

Being in contention for finals football is a welcome challenge for the girls in purple, however it has been a number of years and a complete squad turnover since this was the case. Reflecting on the pressure, Johnston explained that the team’s internationally experienced players have provided valuable guidance in these final weeks.

“That experience can be taken into the games,” said Johnston. “We have to treat every game like the final, those players can help us through and guide the younger players like myself through.” 

Megan Wynne has returned to full training following a ruptured ACL and defender Naomi Chinnama is working on rebuilding strength and stamina after an ankle injury. 

Newcastle Jets v Perth Glory will be played on Saturday the 21st of February at No.2 Sportsground at 2pm AWST. Streamed free on 10Play and for paying subscribers of Paramount+

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Asian Cup Preview: The Philippines

Above: The Philippines lines up for a team photo. Image: Philippines Women’s National Team.

By Genevieve Henry (19/2/26).

A growing power in Asian women’s football, The Philippines Women’s National Team will be competing in their 11th Asian Cup. Las Filipinas will look to improve upon their semifinal appearance in the 2022 edition. Competing in Group A alongside Australia, South Korea, and Iran, this team will have to make every moment count. 

The Philippines know how to play tournament football, however, their pedigree has grown in recent years. In 2022, they won their first major trophy, taking home the ASEAN Women’s Championship and solidifying their place as one of the best in Southeast Asia. The Philippines also added a first World Cup appearance — and win — to their list of accomplishments in 2023.

Squad:

Mark Torcaso announced the preliminary 32-player squad on February 4th.

Goalkeepers: Olivia McDaniel (Stallion Laguna), Kiara Fontanilla (Unattached), Nina Meollo (Real Bedford), Gabrielle Baker (Louisiana Cardinals), Leah Bradley (Wilmington Hammerheads), Isabelle Mapanao (Rose State Raiders).

Defenders: Hali Long (College of Asian Scholars), Sofia Wunsch (Unattached), Jessika Cowart (Vancouver Rise), Malea Cesar (Trinity Tigers), Angela Beard (Brisbane Roar), Janae DeFazio (Western Sydney Wanderers), Ariana Markey (Pepperdine Waves), Aiselyn Sia (Illinois FIghting Illini).

Midfielders: Sara Eggesvik (LSK Kvinner), Jaclyn Sawicki (Calgary Wild), Anicka Castañeda (Kaya–Iloilo), Kaya Hawkinson (Stallion Laguna), Isabella Pasion (Stallion Laguna), Alexa Pino (Kentucky Wildcats), Alessandrea Carpio (Kaya Iloilo), Natalie Oca (UC San Diego Tritons), Aaliyah Schinaman (George Mason Patriots), Jourdyn Curran (Unattached), Ava Villapando (LSU Tigers).

Forwards: Carleigh Frilles (DC Power), Katrina Guillou (DC Power), Chandler McDaniel (Stallion Laguna), Meryll Serrano (Haugesund), Mallie Ramirez (UNLV Rebels), Jael-Marie Guy (Brown Bears), Paige McSwigan (North Florida Ospreys).

Head Coach:
Above: Mark Torcaso watches on from the sidelines of a PWNT match. Image: PWNT.

The Philippines are coached by a man well-known in Australian football: Mark Torcaso. After finding success in the NPLW, the Australian rose to prominence leading Western United in their inaugural season to great success, winning A-League Women coach of the Year 2022-23. He succeeded fellow Australian Alen Stajcic as the coach of Las Filipinas in August 2023. Torcaso recently led the Philippines to a gold medal at the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand in December 2025, defeating Vietnam on penalties after a testy mini-tournament run.

Asian Cup History:

This will be the 11th Asian Cup appearance for The Philippines. The 2022 edition was their most successful run, making it all the way to the semifinals. In every other edition they have qualified for, aside from 2018, they only played in the group stage. The past two editions, finishing sixth and making it to the semifinal, will give the team hope.

How They Qualified:

The Philippines topped qualification Group G to qualify for the Asian Cup. They earned a perfect 9 points and a goal difference of 10, beating Saudi Arabia 3-0, Cambodia 6-0, and Hong Kong 1-0. 

Strengths:

The Philippines boast a squad filled with international experience that has helped propel them to their recent success. With players in Australia, Europe, Canada, and plenty in the U.S. College System — alongside the domestic players — the team is able to draw from a wide range of experiences and styles. This helps the team thrive defensively, especially, conceding only 8 goals in 15 games in 2025.

Development Areas:

The Philippines struggle offensively at times, failing to score more than 1 or 2 goals when met with good competition. Despite having high scoring forwards such as Sarina Bolden and Quinley Quezada, the team needs varied routes to goal. Their Asian Cup qualifying campaign exemplifies this, having the lowest goal difference of any winning team.

Key Players:
Above: Hali Long strides up the field with the ball. Image: PWNT.

Hali Long captains the Philippines and holds their appearance record with 101. The 31-year old centreback has also scored 22 goals, an impressive feat for a defensive player. She drives the team from the defense, making runs and constantly spurring on moves with her attack-minded play. She plays her club football for The College of Women Scholars in Thailand, on loan from Filipino club Kaya Iloilo. 

Olivia McDaniel in goal has been a star for the Philippines in the past few years. The 28-year old goalkeeper plays for Stallion Laguna in the Philippines and has made 59 appearances for the national team. She is firmly in control of the number one goalkeeper spot. She is pivotal in keeping the Philippines stronger defensively.

Midfielder Sara Eggsevik has 50 caps and 6 goals for Las Filipinas, but her influence goes beyond her stats. Marshalling the midfield with experience, the 28-year old has been instrumental in the Philippines’ late successes. She even got the assist for Bolden’s winning goal against New Zealand in their first World Cup victory. Eggsevik is one of the team’s primary creative figures. She plays for Norwegian club LSK Kvinner. Born and raised in Norway, she also represented them at the youth levels. 

One to Watch:

24-year old defender Janae DeFazio is a rising star in the defence, plying her club trade at Western Sydney Wanderers in the A-League women. She found great success prior to her professional career at UCLA, playing 37 times during college. She was signed by Kansas City Current out of college, but moved back to the Philippines to briefly play for Makati. In her first appearances for the Philippines in 2024, she recorded an assist against Jordan. 

Success Would Be: 

Advancing beyond the group stage would be a success for the Philippines and winning a quarterfinal would be within reach. Although they were drawn into a tough group, Torcaso and his side have high standards due to their recent success.

Prediction:

The Philippines should advance to the quarterfinals but may lose against China, Japan, or North Korea. If they manage to escape the powerhouses, they could advance, but a quarterfinal exit seems likely.

Fixtures:

1st March — Australia vs Philippines, 5pm, Perth Stadium

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

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

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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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