“It feels no different to two years ago when I was here, when we were lifting the premiership.”
Sarah Hunter has signed with Sydney FC on a one-year deal, returning to the club after two years in the Première Ligueat Paris FC.
Hunter played for Sydney from 2022-23, as part of both the 2021-22 Premiership and the 2022-23 Championship winning sides. The 22-year-old midfielder took to the pitch a total of 37 times during her first run with Sydney, scoring 5 goals despite her defensive style of play.
During her first run with Sydney FC, Hunter helped carry the team to the 2021-22 Premiership, followed by the 2022/23 Championship, scoring in a 4-0 win over Western United.
“Looking back, Ante always said, when we’re in that year, this is so special, this team we’ve got, this streak we’re on is this group we’ve got is really special. And now looking back, you know, I can appreciate that more.”
“I love winning, I love lifting trophies”
Since Hunter’s departure, it has been a significant change in pace for Sydney FC, as they finished 8th on the ladder following a string of uncharacteristic losses last season. The young midfielders’ experience and adaptability could potentially be the missing piece that Sydney needs to reclaim their place as one of the Ninja A-League teams to beat.
“I’d love to be able to be able to help the team get back to that standard of success because I know we’ve definitely got, you know, got the players and the coaching staff to do that.”
Hunter made 14 appearances across competitions during her time at Paris FC, and called her experience “very much a learning curve”. Although not playing as consistently as she was during her time in the A-League, she now brings in unique European, specifically Champions League experience, back to Sydney FC.
“I learned so much. It’s crazy to look back. I’m still reflecting on the two years that I was there. It was a crazy experience, probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I’m very grateful to have had football-wise, personal life-wise,” said Hunter, reflecting on her time in Paris. “It’s been a great experience and I’m happy to be back and bring what I’ve learnt back here to Sydney.”
Along with her exciting club career, Hunter has spent significant time in the national setup, making her debut for the Young Matildas in a 5-1 win against New Zealand in 2022. She quickly went on to score against Singapore for Australia’s U23s AFC Women’s Championship campaign in the same year.
It didn’t take long for the young midfielder to grab the attention of the senior team, gaining her first call-up and debut in 2023, when captain Sam Kerr was out on injury following the World Cup. Hunter’s ability to settle into the midfield seamlessly allowed the attack to move forward and present a threat against Canada, in Kerr’s absence.
“I sort of just wanted to get home. Still training, still going to the gym, but didn’t have a specific club or didn’t have a sort of next step, and it sort of just fell into place.”
While making it back into the senior national team, and ultimately the Asian cup, isn’t a thought that’s lost on Hunter, her main focus is playing the best football she can for her club and enjoying each game for what it is.
“Whatever happens, they’ve got a great squad. Joe’s a great coach.”
Having experienced Sydney FC at its best, and coming back after a disappointing run, Hunter spoke highly of head coach Ante Juric and his ability to carry his team through both wins and losses, while getting the best out of every player.
“He’s such a great leader, and I’m really motivated by him. He always pushes you to be the best you can be.”
“I think we have a bit of confidence, but, you know, it’s just fun. I’m just enjoying it. So there’s no pressure when you’re having fun and you want to play, and then I think good things happen from them.”
Sydney FC is set to kick off its 2025/26 Ninja A-League season at home, in a tough clash against Melbourne City this weekend. While the team will be looking to get the momentum for the rest of the season going quickly, and reclaim their dominance over the opposition, after a hard run last season, Hunter is focused on enjoying her football and taking each day and match as it comes.
“We haven’t really focused much on the City. Obviously, a few tactical things. In the last week, but we’re pretty focused on ourselves,” said the midfielder, adding, “it’s the first game of the season, so you want to build a solid foundation for the rest of the season, and then just bring in little things.”
There are high expectations put on Hunter upon her return, having won player of the year in her final season with the club before the European switch, but the pressure hasn’t gotten to her, saying, “I don’t feel any pressure. Pressure comes more from wanting to represent the club well.”
“It’s been a great experience and I’m happy to be back and bring what I’ve learnt back here to Sydney.”
Beyond that pressure, the expectations, the wins and losses, Sarah Hunter’s main goal for this upcoming season is to enjoy her football, and do what she can to get Sydney FC back to the winning club she knows it can be again.
“It feels quite natural,” said Hunter on her return, “it’s just sort of happened really nicely and meant to be in a way.”
Above: Central Coast Mariners lift the trophy after their Grand Final win last season. Photo: A-Leagues.
Impetus‘ team of contributors who will be covering the A-League Women for us this season kick things off with this guide to each team and their prospects for the new campaign(29/10/25).
Adelaide United
by Alyce Collett
Above: Paige Zois – a key arrival at Adelaide United. Photo: Adelaide United.
Season 2024/25 was a huge season of growth for Adelaide United.
After a last placed finish the year before, the Reds won 10 more games than they had in 2023/24 and went on to finish third. After an Elimination Final win over Western United, Adelaide’s 2024/25 season came to an end in the Semi Final when Melbourne Victory proved to be too strong over the two legs.
Heading into 2025/26, Adelaide will be aiming to build on what it achieved last season and make an even deeper run into the finals this season.
Despite the success the team enjoyed last season, there has been plenty of changes to the squad in the offseason.There are eight new faces to the Reds.
Holly Murray has made the move across from Canberra United and will add important strength to Adelaide’s defensive stocks. Emilia Makris (formerly Murray) is making her return to the club after spending last season at Melbourne City but struggled to get consistent minutes in a side that went undefeated.
Paige Zois is another young star who will be looking to get some consistent minutes with the Reds and to show the on field toughness and smarts that made her a fan favourite at former club Melbourne Victory.
She is not the only tough midfielder that United has signed, with the Taranto sisters Adriana and Melissa also making the move across after former club Western United was kicked out of the competition.
Rounding out the signings were Carina Rossi and Amelie Millar. Rossi is a teenage forward who played an important role in helping Box Hill United win the 2025 Victorian National Premier League (NPLW) Women’s title. Meanwhile, Milar is a goalkeeper and only 16 years old, and has made a number of state teams in her home state of Tasmania, and has also been at Junior Matildas training camps.
All these new faces do mean plenty have also left the club. However, outside Lucia Leon, Nanako Sasaki, and Tiarna Karambasis, the other departures were not really getting minutes last season, so were just depth players.
Those changes do not stop on the field. The Reds also have a new head coach this season, with Theo Tsiounis taking over from Adrian Stenta.
Tsiounis comes to the Reds with over a decade of coaching experience in South Australia’s NPL and state league competitions, and a proven track record of developing young players, which will be important with how many young players the Reds have brought into the squad this season.
The Reds also now have a full-time assistant coach for their A-League Women’s side for the first time, with Maruschka Waldus being appointed to the role.
Despite all these changes, there are plenty of top-end stars still plying their trade with the club this season. Erin Healy, Fiona Worts, and Emily Condon all signed new contracts over the offseason and will be looking to help build on what they all started last season.
Brisbane Roar
by Kieran Yap
Above: Sharn Freier coming on for her Matildas debut in April 2024 – her return to Brisbane Roar from VfL Wolfsburg is huge for the Queenslanders. Photo: Football Australia.
Brisbane Roar fans received an early Christmas present this year. Matildas winger Sharn Freier returned to the club from VfL Wolfsburg. The star forward is one of four Australian internationals at Alex Smith’s disposal as they look to improve on last season, which felt like an opportunity missed.
The Roar started the 2024/25 season as the form team of the competition. With Tameka Yallop leading the charge and the prodigious Grace Kuilamu, Freier, and her twin sister Laini were all amongst the competition’s best players.
Brisbane’s season basically peaked with an 8-2 win away against Western United, and following that, injuries and results went against them. The team that looked like title contenders missed the finals, but there is cause for optimism ahead of the new season.
Alongside Freier, Brisbane welcome back Kijah Stephenson. The stylish and dangerous playmaker missed last season through injury and brings a creativity to the attack. She can find a killer pass and is a dangerous finisher who can play anywhere in attack.
The midfield has retained Momo Hayashi, scorer of wonder goals and dependable anchor, and will likely be partnered with Zara Kruger and Alicia Woods once again. Brisbane have consolidated this area of the pitch, and in a league where squads often take time to adjust to each other, the consolidation and consistency could make the midfield a real asset.
Kiera Myers joined from Melbourne City. The youngster has yet to establish herself in the A-League Women, but will provide another talented option for Smith, especially with Yallop’s fitness still under a cloud.
Ava Piazza is another excellent addition; the fullback will slot into the vacancy left by Chelsea Blissett or Deborah Ann de la Harpe. In goal, Chloe Lincoln has been signed. The capped Matilda will be the first Australian goalkeeper in the last two seasons at Roar.
Their two previous custodians have been on loan and had to depart before the season ended. Having a strong, talented, and experienced goalkeeper who will be able to stay for the entire season will make a big difference to Brisbane’s season as they push for finals for the first time since 2020/21.
Brisbane have once again trusted in youth and local players. Their overseas signings like forward Bente Jansen will hopefully add something to the team, but a look at the midfield and defence shows that Smith has built the foundations of the team around players who we know can play well in the A-League and still have their best years ahead.
Like always, Brisbane will have to overcome a grueling travel schedule and some more star-studded teams, but there is reason to be excited. This is a solid team on every line, and with Freier’s return in particular, they have an attack that will challenge most teams in the league.
Canberra United
by Callum Logie
Above: Back for another year, club icon Michelle Heyman is part of an exciting-looking Canberra United squad. Photo: Canberra United.
It was a tumultuous off-season for the team from the capital, with an injection of funds from the ACT government in July securing the team at least another season at McKellar Park. However, the off-season on the recruiting front can be considered a resounding success for the team.
Coach Antoni Jagarinec secured the services of energetic midfielder Nanako Sasaki, former Western United forward Kiara De Domizio. De Domizio will provide some depth up front to support their already intriguing forward line, and Sasaki has been an A-League mainstay for a few years now, known for her midfield presence at Adelaide United.
Canberra United have also looked overseas for new talent to make their push into the title hunt that much more potent, signing hard-working midfielder Josie Aulicino, who has starred at club level in Victoria and was a strong contributor in her five NCAA seasons with Northwestern. Emma Hawkins is another forward that Canberra have high hopes for, producing everywhere she has played, from the NCAA to Iceland and Portugal.
Led by the evergreen Michelle Heyman up front and an exciting batch of young talent looking to make the step up this season, Canberra United are aiming to be contenders this coming season. Scoring four goals in her last five international appearances and an A-League career shots on target conversion rate over 55%, the timeless Heyman will look to lead the line for a Canberra United team looking to break into the top four.
Despite their youth across most positions, Canberra United will be optimistic about their team chemistry, with youngster Mary Stanic-Floody being joined by the exciting prospects Sienna Dale and Ava Briedis. Stanic-Floody in particular will be looking to take a step forward, with the 19-year-old scoring four goals in 22 appearances for the team last season.
One area that Canberra United will be looking to improve in for this coming season is goal difference. More specifically, keeping more clean sheets. It is always challenging to keep a clean sheet in the Women’s A-League, with only eight goalkeepers having a clean sheet percentage of over 30% throughout its history. Sally James sits at 17% for her career, adding three clean sheets last year.
Tegan Bertolissio will also be key to Canberra’s progress on that end of the field, with the 19-year-old being called up to train with the Matildas senior squad during this off-season. She already has 36 senior appearances with Canberra and will be looking to cement herself as the defensive stalwart for a side with high hopes.
Jazmin Wardlow and Sasha Grove are both new recruits brought in to supplement the defence as well, so it may well be that the sky’s the limit for this Canberra United group.
Central Coast Mariners
by Alice de Koster-Kitto
Above: Izzy Gomez celebrates against Sydney FC last season. Photo: Central Coast Mariners.
Central Coast Mariners are headed into their most highly anticipated season since their reinstatement to the league in the 2023/24 season. Having come off a historical championship win to close off the 2024/25 season, all eyes will be on the Mariners as they look to reclaim the title for a second time running.
The reigning champions will kick off their season hosting Adelaide United at Polytec Stadium in a high-pressure clash, as the Mariners will fight to meet the expectations set by their phenomenal campaign last season.
The departure of winning head coach Emily Husband has meant the Mariners have had a period of adjustment in pre-season, which they will be looking to settle into ahead of the season’s kick-off. Husband took an underdog team to the championship title, just two seasons after being reinstated to the league.
In August, Kory Babington was appointed as the Central Coast Mariners’ head coach for the upcoming season. Babington comes with a wealth of experience, specifically with young players, as the Director of Football at Westfield Sports High School, and with experience as an assistant coach for the Young Matildas in 2023.
His familiarity with much of the squad, as well as his reputation for developing young players and transitioning them into professional careers, makes Babington a terrific fit to take the Mariners into their upcoming season.
The Mariners only just announced their newest signings a fortnight before the season started. The squad welcomes a hoard of new names, notably the likes of Millie Farrow, Avaani Prakash, and Jyana Dos Santos, all of whom have made an impact at their former club last season.
The wealth of fresh talent is set to restore some of the impact that may have been lost upon the departure of three prominent players: Taylor Ray, Jessika Nash, and Bianca Galic, whose presence was critical in the Mariners’ success last season.
There is still a great amount of depth in the squad, and the familiarity between teammates provides an opportunity to build on what has already been established in previous seasons. The new signings, however, allow a chance to create new momentum, especially given their history as Mariners opponents. The loss of important players and a game-changing coach, however, does risk the Mariners becoming unsteady and could lead to a plateau after reaching such a peak.
There is definitely a lot of promise for the Mariners headed into the 2025/26 season. The familiarity in the squad, paired with the confidence instilled after a historical season under the leadership of Kory Babington, makes for an exciting upcoming season. Should they capitalise on these advantages, the 2025/26 Ninja A-League season could once again be Central Coast Mariners for the taking.
Melbourne City
by Emma Burke
Above: Holly Mac is back for 2025/26. Photo: Melbourne City.
After only managing to secure the one piece of silverware last season in the Premiers’ Plate, Melbourne City will have another chance at winning the treble under head coach Michael Matricciani again this season.
Matricciani’s second season in charge of the City Women sees a core group of players retained by the club in players such as Rebekah Stott, Taylor Otto, Bryleeh Henry, Leticia McKenna, Laura Hughes, Leah Davidson, and just one more year for the league’s golden boot winner Holly McNamara.
Some of the losses they’ve seen in the offseason have included Lourdes Bosch, Marianna Speckmaier, and Rihanna Pollicina, who had been with the club for the last four years and has now joined cross-city rivals Melbourne Victory.
Their new signings include English defender Danielle Turner, winger Aideen Keane who most recently played for Canberra United, Football Fern Deven Jackson, who’s last season with Newcastle Jets saw her win the club’s golden boot, and versatile forward Chinaza Uchendu, a Nigerian International who has played across Europe.
In typical Melbourne City fashion, the club has also signed a slew of Young Matildas, including the side’s captain, Kaya Jugovic, Izabella Rako, Kiera Sarris, Danella Butrus, and Dali Gorr Burchmore. Further cementing City’s position as a club looking to develop young talent into future stars of the A-League Women.
Alongside their contention for trophies in the A-League Women, Melbourne City will also be looking to do one better than their last attempt at the Asian Women’s Champions’ League, where they fell just short of winning the entire competition on penalties against Wuhan Jiangda.
Following a less than ideal preseason that involved two losses in friendlies against Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United, City open their Premiership defence against Sydney FC on 1st November. Their AWCL campaign begins a few weeks later in Vietnam where they will compete in the group stage against Lion City Sailors, Ho Chi Minh City, and Stallion Laguna FC.
Melbourne Victory
by Isabelle Campbell
Above: Taylor Ray (right) in action for The Matildas – a big new signing for Melbourne Victory. Photo: Football Australia.
After narrowly missing out on the premiership by just two points and then heartbreakingly losing the Grand Final on penalties to Central Coast Mariners, Melbourne Victory head into the new season with a clear mission: to go one better.
One of the most talked-about signings is Taylor Ray, who arrives from the very team that denied Victory the championship last season. Ray, a hard-working midfielder who spent much of the campaign playing in defence, was a key figure in the Mariners’ title-winning side.
Coach Jeff Hopkins has put together a squad made up of experienced players and promising new talent. This mix combines the reliability of the veterans with the energy of the newcomers, giving the team the balance needed to compete at the highest level throughout the season.
Creative force Rhianna Pollicina makes a big move to Victory from direct rivals Melbourne City. Known for her vision and playmaking skills, she recently led Box Hill United to an NPLW title and will be central to Victory’s attacking plans this season. Complementing her creativity up front is Kennedy White, who brings speed and a proven knack for scoring after an impressive season overseas.
Victory have also welcomed back Grace Maher, who played two seasons with the club earlier in her career before establishing herself as one of the league’s standout players. Equally comfortable in defence or midfield, Maher’s versatility and on-field impact make her a key player to watch this season.
Youth and energy come in the form of 18-year-old attacking midfielder Sienna Saveska, who finished as Western Sydney Wanderers’ leading goalscorer last season.
In defence, Victory have strengthened their backline by signing Chelsea Blissett, who adds much-needed depth and versatility on the left side after two years with Brisbane Roar. Kiwi fullback Zoe McMeeken brings extensive A-League experience and international quality at just 21.
Adding to the mix are promising talents like Jessica Young, Sienna Techera, and Fiorina Iaria, with goalkeeping options boosted by newcomers Payton Woodward and Chloe McKenzie.
A particularly special addition to the senior squad is Poppy O’Keeffe, who has made club history as the first female player to progress all the way through Victory’s academy system to earn a first-team contract. At just 17, she’s already shown she’s ready for the big stage.
While Victory said goodbye to fan favourites like Emily Gielnik, Alex Chidiac, and Paige Zois, they secured the return of key young players Alana Jančevski, Holly Furphy, and Sofia Sakalis. Having already made their mark at the club and fresh from winning the ASEAN Championship with the Australia U23s, these players are expected to play significant roles in the season ahead.
After a near miss last season, Melbourne Victory Women return with renewed strength, fresh talent, and a fierce determination to get the job done this time.
Newcastle Jets
by Max Parris
Above: Melina Ayres (14) celebrates a goal during her previous spell with Newcastle Jets. Her return is an excellent signing by Stephen Hoyle. Photo: A-Leagues.
Newcastle Jets begin their 25-26 A-League Women campaign with renewed ambitions after having a tough season last year, finishing 11th on the ladder.
Stephen Hoyle’s side look to bounce back, and have recruited well with some new additions to the squad. New Zealand international Kelli Brown, who played 13 games for Perth Glory last season, scoring five goals. Brown is set to have a breakout season with her new team and will be looking to add a potent goalscoring presence in Newcastle’s forward line.
Returning to the Jets is Melina Ayres. In her most recent A-League Women season, Ayres scored six goals in 14 appearances. Brown and Ayres will be key to Newcastle Jets success this season.
Another addition to the squad is ex-Sheffield United player Olivia Page, who has played for English second-tier side Sheffield United. Page comes fresh from a fantastic season at Eastern United in New Zealand, taking the team on a good run in the Continental League Cup in 2024. Page is a versatile midfielder who brings a physical presence and experience, having played in England as well as playing for New Zealand in the U17 and U20 Women’s World Cups.
Some of the key players that Newcastle have also retained are midfielder Libby Copus-Brown, Matildas defender Natasha Prior, and club captain Cass Davis. Copus-Brown brings a wealth of experience, having played in England for the then tier two side Lewes, and has also made over 100 appearances in the A-League Women.
Prior is a leader from the back, making over 16 appearances last season, and she has earned six Matildas caps after making her debut on 1st December 2024, against Brazil. Davis is a dynamic midfield leader who signed a new contract for this season.
Head coach Hoyle comes with experience as an assistant coach of the New Zealand national Women’s U17s team and is on a two-year contract.
The Jets will be eager to return to the top six after the frustrations of last season, and they will be going out to ensure they make the most of their strong fan base and atmosphere at the No.2 Sportsground, which can be an intimidating place to visit.
In their last pre-season game, the Jets played the NPL NNSW All Stars team and emerged victorious with a resounding 6-2 win, giving the team a huge confidence boost ahead of their opening game of the season. A tough first game of the campaign at Canberra United will give a number of clues as to their progress since last term.
Perth Glory
by Ben Gilby
Above: Perth Glory’s local star Georgia Cassidy (8) was a key part of Australia U23’s ASEAN Cup win in August. Photo: A-Leagues.
After a number of years of near misses and underachievement, the Western Australian side look to be flying under the radar once more this season – and that could be dangerous for the East Coast sides.
Last season, a young squad with a large number of locally produced players connected superbly with the fans, making the Sam Kerr Football Centre a loud and imposing venue, one which the Glory made the most of with an excellent set of results.
However, an inability to win away from home, despite head coach Stephen Peters regularly changing up the routine and travel plans in a bid to find the right result, ultimately did for Perth.
This season’s squad contains the same exciting young Western Australian talent, but also has more firepower. However, the team will have to negotiate long-term injuries to experienced heads Nat Tathem and Megan Wynne, as well as less experience at A-League level in goal.
Last season’s keepers Casey Dumont and Miranda Templeman have departed, with Teresa Morrisey joining teenage NPLW WA talent Megan Phillips (Fremantle City) and Jess Skinner (Perth RedStar) between the sticks.
Julia Sardo joins from Western United to bring ballast and creativity. Naomi Chinnama was a standout at times, getting better each time she put on a purple shirt. She has the talent to be a major star at this level, and 2025/26 could be that full breakout year. Grace Johnston, another young Western Australian, is now going into her third season in the A-League, with a Matildas U23 ASEAN Cup winners medal in her locker and the air of someone far older than her 20 years. Mischa Anderson will also be looking to become another local regular.
It could well be the Glory’s midfield that will decide whether they can finally reach Finals for the first time since 2019. There is so much potential in this part of the squad – but the talent among it is occasionally raw. If this group can produce a consistent level of performance that they are capable of, then it’s going to be a thrilling campaign in the West.
Georgia Cassidy stamped her authority all over the Young Matildas’ ASEAN Cup squad with goals and confident performances in August, and with Tijan McKenna threading perfect passes alongside her. The unlimited potential that Clancy Westaway, Charli Wainwright, Sarah O’Donoghue, and Ella Adbul-Massih have makes the possibilities thrilling. The experienced head of Izzy Dalton, alongside them, will be crucial in pushing this group to live up to their capabilities.
It has been up front where Perth have struggled consistently in recent years, and this is where the close-season arrival of Rola Badawiya from SC Braga could help. The American scored eight goals for Central Coast Mariners in 2023/24, so hopes will be high. Susan Phonsongkham’s return from long-term injury at the tail end of last season was a massive boost, and increasing game time for another local, Ella Lincoln, showed she can thrive at this level.
Perth’s season for me rests on two things – an ability to win away from home, and for their hugely talented midfield to reach peak performance consistently. If they can do that, then the top six is a possibility.
Sydney FC
by Georgie Lewis
Above: Sydney FC’s headline capture, Jodi Ulkekul. Photo: Sydney FC.
After a disappointing eighth-place finish last season—the lowest ladder position in the club’s history —Sydney FC return with a clear mission: redemption.
For a club accustomed to silverware, missing the finals entirely was unacceptable. Despite being the defending champions, the Sky Blues endured a season of struggle, managing just one win early on before finding some form in the new year. Now, under Head Coach Ante Juric, Sydney have assembled a squad mixing international firepower with exciting young talent, all united by one goal: reclaiming their place at the top.
The headline signing is undoubtedly American attacker Jodi Ulkekul, who arrives with a glittering résumé spanning the United States, Spain, Italy, and the NWSL. The 28-year-old brings leadership, versatility, and a wealth of experience from clubs including OL Reign, Roma, and most recently Spokane Zephyr. Her ability to link play and make runs in behind will be crucial to solving Sydney’s goalscoring issues from last season.
Joining Ulkekul in attack is Panama international Riley Tanner, who impressed Australian fans earlier this year when she played a key role in Panama’s surprise 1-0 victory over the Matildas in Perth. A FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 veteran with pace and an eye for goal, Tanner will reunite with Ulkekul after the pair played together at Spokane, giving Sydney another dimension going forward.
Adding further spice to the attack is Haiti international Laurie-Ann Moïse, a 23-year-old forward with explosive pace and power. Having starred in the NCAA system with Cal State Fullerton and South Alabama, Moïse arrives ready to make an immediate impact in her first professional season.
Sydney have also strengthened their backline by securing Philippines international Madison Ayson from Canberra United. The 24-year-old centre-back brings A-League and NWSL experience with Houston Dash, adding much-needed strength and composure to a defence that struggled last season.
A particularly significant acquisition is Bianca Galic, who arrives from reigning champions Central Coast Mariners on a three-year deal. The Croatian international was the penalty shootout hero in last season’s Grand Final and brings a winning mentality that Sydney desperately need. Her technical ability and four international caps make her a crucial addition to the midfield.
Youth continues to be a priority, with Sydney securing 17-year-old Skye Halmarick from NPL side NWS Spirit. The prolific striker scored an incredible 23 goals in 22 matches last season, including two hat-tricks and four braces, and will be eager to translate that remarkable form to the A-League. She’s joined by Young Matildas midfielder Amelia Cassar, who crosses town from Western Sydney Wanderers on a three-year deal at just 17 years old.
Between the posts, Sydney have recruited American goalkeeper Heather Hinz from NWSL side Houston Dash. The 2023 SEC Goalkeeper of the Year brings elite-level experience, while Tiahna Robertson joins from Newcastle Jets to provide depth and competition.
Sydney have done well to retain their core, with last season’s Golden Boot winner Mackenzie Hawkesby re-signing for another campaign. The 25-year-old midfielder will be crucial to Sydney’s push for silverware in what will be her seventh season with the club. Equally important is the retention of star defender Tori Tumeth, who recently captained Australia’s U23 side to ASEAN Championship glory and remains determined to make amends for last season’s struggles.
Young stars Caley Tallon-Henniker, Amber Luchtmeijer, and Rubi Sullivan have all re-signed, alongside Young Matildas captain Shay Hollman, who has committed until 2027. The club has also promoted Sofia Fante, Claire Corbett, and Willa Pearson from the Female Development Squad, highlighting Sydney’s commitment to developing the next generation.
A bright spot from last season was teenage sensation Indiana Dos Santos, who claimed the Young Footballer of the Year award despite the team’s struggles. However, the 17-year-old will miss the start of the season after suffering an ACL injury during a Future Matildas training camp, dealing a blow to Sydney’s attacking plans.
While Sydney bid farewell to Matildas striker Kyah Simon, overseas recruits Faye Bryson, Millie Farrow, and Shea Connors, along with several goalkeepers, the club has moved decisively to reshape the squad with quality replacements.
After their worst season in years, Sydney FC Women with international star power, hungry young talent, and a burning desire to prove that last season was merely an aberration—not a new reality.
Wellington Phoenix
by Jonathon Hagger
Above: Two of Wellington Phoenix’s major arrivals during the close season, Football Ferns star CJ Bott (left) and head coach Bev Priestman. Photo: Wellington Phoenix.
After four seasons of mixed results, the club owners and management have committed resources and energy into securing all the talent they need – players, coaches, and back-office support.
Success starts with the Coaches. Bev Priestman moves to Wellington looking to restart her coaching career after a short layoff following controversy at the last Olympics. With a super impressive CV including coaching four FIFA Women’s World Cups, three Olympic Games, and three FIFA Youth World Cups, she is the business.
Amy Sheperd continues for another season in the assistant role. Sheperd’s impact on the team in the 2024/2025 season was massive and understated.
Maturity and capability across the pitch are the hallmarks of the Nix off-season recruitment. Several well-known Football Ferns players have signed on to play in Wellington, with Victoria Essen, the number one goalkeeper, linking up with Ferns defender CJ Bott as she returns to play in her home city.
Ellie Walker shifts from SC Braga to bolster the defensive unit. Having played three seasons in Portugal’s top-level league, Walker will be a leader in the team. Lucia Leon joins the Nix from a successful previous season with Adelaide United. Leon brings a proven resilience.
Rounding out the defending unit are Mackenzie Barry, Marisa van der Meer, and Tiana Jaber. All very talented players who have proven their ability to play A-League level football in previous seasons.
After a season in the US, Macey Fraser returns to Wellington looking to re-ignite her career. Sidelined with ongoing injuries derailed her US experience and being fully fit and healthy again is a top priority.
Tessel Middag arrives from Portugal and boasts an incredible list of professional teams on her record. Middag brings experience, wisdom, and maturity that will help shape the future of the developing players.
The Nix have retained Alyssa Whinham, Manaia Elliot, Daisy Brazendale, and Olivia Ingham. This will see these players continue to develop and mature as footballers.
Sabitra Bhandari brings the missing piece that the Nix didn’t have last season: A proven out-and-out goal scorer. Bhandari is the all-time highest goal scorer in Nepalese football history and holds the record as the highest female goal scorer in South Asia.
Grace Jale and Emma Main return to the Nix and will be looking to greatly improve their form. With Jale now in her prime playing years, scoring goals is required if she wants to be selected as a Football Fern again.
The success of the Wellington Phoenix this season relies entirely on chemistry. They have recruited top-quality players in the right positions. The mature players provide much-needed balance on and off the field, and this very characteristic will set up the team for success. The young players bring drive, determination, and fun. It feels like just the right balance.
This is the time for the Wellington Phoenix to shine. 2025/2026 will, without a doubt, be the team’s best season so far.
Western Sydney Wanderers
by Kris Goman
Above: Amy Harrison – always a key member of the Western Sydney Wanderers team. Photo: A-Leagues.
Change is in the air at Wanderland! After a whirlwind off-season, the Western Sydney Wanderers are gearing up for a fresh start, and fans have plenty to be excited about.
Eleven players have departed, including club legend and Julie Dolan Medal winner Sophie Harding, who’s now chasing glory in Fort Lauderdale. Twelve players remain, ready to anchor the squad. And at this stage, it looks like there’s ten new signings, set to shake things up, bringing international experience and youthful energy.
Two Chinese national team players, defender Wang Ying and forward Yuan Cong, are joining the team, looking to sharpen their skills as they gain experience in Australia in the lead-up to the Women’s Asian Cup next March.
Janae DeFazio, a versatile defender with eight caps for the Philippines, adds even more international flavour. Between the posts, ex-Sydney FC keeper Brianna Edwards brings her New Zealand national team experience to the red and black.
There’s a strong focus on youth and developing players through the Wanderers Academy program. The Wanderers have recently had six of their junior players represent Australia in the Junior Matildas, and that investment is paying off with Nikkita Fazzari and Alana Turkkan recently promoted to the senior squad.
Poppie Hooks, who played A-League Women football in the early part of her career with hometown side Perth Glory, is back in the competition at the Wanderers after a superb season in the NPLW NSW, along with Aimee Hall – this pair are ready to make their mark. Rounding out the new arrivals are Amy Barker and Sienna Arrarte adding depth and promise.
The bulk of the team have been training together since mid-September. The Chinese Internationals and Young Matildas joined a little later but should bring plenty of experience with them. With nearly half the team new, fans should expect some early growing pains and it may take a little time for the team to gel.
The core from last season, Amy Harrison, Danika Matos, Liv Price, Sham Khamis, Amy Chessari, Millie Bennett, Ella Buchanan, Talia Younis, Cushla Rue, Holly Caspers, Ena Harada, and Anika Stajcic, provides stability and leadership. They will still need to hit the ground running to not lose precious points in the early rounds.
Last season’s wooden spoon is a distant memory. With a bold mix of international talent and homegrown stars, the Wanderers are aiming higher this season. The last time the Wanderers made a big investment in international players, they made the finals, and the goal is always to go one better than that.
It’s yet to be determined if this team is of the same calibre as the 2019/2020 team, but the fans have their collective fingers crossed for an exciting season and plenty of moments to cheer the squad on.
Impetus’ Ben Gilby was present at both Australia’s friendlies against Wales in Cardiff and England in Derby over the past few days. He assesses what he saw (29/10/25).
Above: The Matildas in the huddle at Derby’s Pride Park Stadium against England. Photo: Football Australia.
Whilst a red card and a 3-0 loss to England may take the headlines from this latest Matildas international window, a lot more happened than those two facts. The events in Cardiff and Derby need to give coaching staff and players a heap of learnings for what is to come.
Saturday’s 2-1 win against Cymru, as the FA of Wales now encourage all media to refer to their national side as was an important one – and it probably offered a more realistic insight into where the Matildas are right now.
That’s not to say we ignore what happened last night against England – absolutely not – but it served as a game against one of the best sides in the world at the present time, and the reality was Australia were fighting against them with one hand tied behind their back after that early red card for Alanna Kennedy.
Let’s take both games separately in terms of what, for me, stood out for the Matildas.
Cymru: a win with errors
Saturday’s game in front of a record crowd to watch a women’s international match in Wales of 11,173 opened this international window for Australia.
There were three takeaway points from the game in Cardiff for me: the evolving new style of play that Joe Montemurro is introducing, the impact of errors that bedding it in are causing, and the real growth shown among some of the newer players in the squad.
The Matildas were looking to play a snappier brand of one-touch passing football to carve through the Cymru midfield. This is an excellent use of the ball-playing skills and vision of a reunited Kyra Cooney-Cross and Katrina Gorry. It was also no coincidence that both Hayley Raso and Kaitlyn Torpey were enjoying their best performances in an Australia shirt for some time as a consequence.
When it worked, Australia were a joy to watch, with fast pace and power. However, it’s fair to say that it felt like passes only really reached their intended place around 60% of the time, which kept Cymru in the game longer than they really should have been – and made for a more transitional game than Montemurro would have wanted.
The danger of turning over possession when playing rapid one-touch passing football through the midfield is that the opposition are very quickly able to attack and penetrate your own defence. Australia were lucky that Cymru do not possess a top-class international-level striker, otherwise they would have been in trouble.
Above: A sunny scene in Cardiff on Saturday as the Matildas took on Cymru. Photo: Ben Gilby.
This tactic is likely to work well in the Asian Cup for the earlier stages of the competition and against the vast majority of likely opponents. However, against a side as technical as Japan, the Matildas would need to employ this game play with a far greater success rate of passing, or else run the risk of getting cut to ribbons.
Torpey was sensational, particularly in the first half. She was a creative ball of energy along the right, bringing those around her into the game with intelligent passing and looking to beat her defender to develop balls into the box.
Amy Sayer’s appearance as a substitute was also significant. Her tenacity and ability to both win back possession and set attacks in motion were key to Australia’s recovery from 1-1 to win the match.
At the back, Winonah Heatley was calm and measured – in control of what was going on around her.
England – victims of circumstances
Much was made ahead of this game of the benefits to the Matildas taking on England – they know so many of England’s most dangerous players so well due to playing with them in clubland.
Whilst this was undoubtedly true, so was the reverse. Something that wasn’t quite mentioned as much.
Australia’s key creative outlets – Katrina Gorry, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Caitlin Foord, Sam Kerr, Ellie Carpenter – all based in the WSL, and all facing teammates coming up against them with the inside knowledge on how to try and contain them, backed up by England being arguably the leading statistical, tactical analysis nation in the women’s game.
Then throw in the fact that England put in a below-par performance against Brazil in Manchester on Saturday. The Lionesses just don’t do two consecutive disappointing performances. Just think back to the Euros and the difference from the opening game against France to the thrilling attacking display against the Netherlands in match day two.
Sarina Wiegman also brought several hungry new faces into her starting line-up – admittedly due to injury – but nonetheless, Lucia Kendall put up a real fight against Ellie Carpenter, and Taylor Hinds was composed as well.
Lionesses history shows that when England want to put right the wrongs of a previous performance, they start like an express train, and, fittingly in a city with rich railway heritage, they did just that last night.
Above: The view from the Matildas’ fans section in Derby last night. Photo: Ben Gilby.
Australia were forced on the back foot from the off – but if any team are capable of weathering a storm and then settling into their groove, it can be The Matildas. But, the second Alanna Kennedy fouled Alessia Russo, realistically, the game was up.
The Lionesses are just too relentless, too clever, and too driven to pass up the opportunity to dominate a team that has lost a defender. There was a depressing air of what was to follow as soon as the red card was brandished.
The Matildas’ tactics were to try and avoid meeting runners immediately in order to keep numbers in the box. Whilst this was a laudable idea against a side with penalty box predators like Russo, it reckoned without the rapid ball playing ability, and high quality, low angled passes behind the Matildas’ defence which kept England in the forefront of the attacking momentum.
On a night when Australia badly missed the outlet and talent of Mary Fowler, the Lionesses tied up Kyra Cooney-Cross with two players smothering her whenever in possession. Caitlin Foord was similarly put at arm’s length.
Of those who showed great promise against Cymru, Amy Sayer started. This was a game for Sayer that will be key for her development at the highest level. She was pressed and harried as never before by the Lionesses, and she will have learned a lot from the game.
Whilst Torpey was absent, and her influence from the Cymru game sorely missed, Wini Heatley was given a deserved starting berth. The 24-year-old played with a maturity way beyond her number of caps. Calm in the face of intense pressure and able to take control of situations of extreme danger, Heatley showed that she is made for this level. Out of a disappointing 3-0 loss came a positive – the potential of Wini Heatley.
Above: the Dutch national team forms a guard of honor for Sherida Spitse. Photo: Oranjevrouwen on X.
Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Canada saw Netherlands’ record cap holder Sherida Spitse’s final match in an orange jersey. As the Leeuwinnen prepared to kick off against Canada, Spitse sang the Wilhelmus one final time. The 35-year-old is retiring from international football, but will keep playing in Ajax colours in the Dutch Eredivisie.
Impetus Football looked back at her impressive international career – in which she racked up 248 caps. Those 248 matches in orange make her the record international appearance maker in Europe (considering both men and women), ahead of legends like Caroline Seger.
Eight major tournaments
She started her international career in 2006 at just 16 years old when she made an appearance in the 4-0 loss against England. She found out about her call up when her mother came to her in the supermarket she was working at, to inform her that then-head coach Vera Pauw had called.
Above: Spitse’ debut, 2006. Photo: WEURO2025 on X.
It was the start of something special for the Frisian player: a career in which she played at five European Championships and three World Cups. That Euros in 2017? A special one. She only went and won it with her team mates. But more about that later.
In 2009 the Dutch women’s national football team went to their first Euros, under Vera Pauw as head coach. It wasn’t an unsuccessful tournament at all, as the Oranje Leeuwinnen lost their semifinal against England after extra time and eventually went on to win the bronze medal. The following Euros in 2013 weren’t as glorious as the Dutchies did not make it out of their group.
On to 2015, when the Leeuwinnen went to their first World Cup, in Canada. This time, they made it out of their group but stranded in the Round of 16. Then came that home tournament in 2017.
Spitse started the tournament without the captain’s armband, but captain Mandy van den Berg was quickly moved to the bench by Sarina Wiegman. After a successful tournament, it was Spitse who lifted the trophy with the captain’s armband on her arm. Spitse scored a free kick in the final. Spitse herself calls that day, the 6th of August 2017, the best day in her international career. She said: “I will never forget that day. […] 2017 is the best year. We became European Champions and my son was born”.
Above: Spitse with the 2017 Euros trophy. Photo: KNVB.
The Leeuwinnen made it to the final at the World Cup in France in 2019, but lost out to the United States, who beat the girls in orange 2-0. Spitse captained the team throughout the tournament. She missed out on the Olympics in 2021 with a knee injury.
Her two final Euros weren’t as successful as Spitse as Oranje exited the tournament to France in the round of 16 in 2022 in England, and did not survive the group stages this summer in Switzerland. Nor was the World Cup in 2023, when they went out in the quarter finals against Spain.
Set piece queen
Spitse could always be heard coaching the team, especially during the COVID-19 lockdowns when no audiences were allowed in the stadiums. She was always making sure her team mates were fighting for the ball and closing down spaces.
When set pieces had to be taken, Spitse was the player her fellow Leeuwinnen looked at. Spitse has a phenomenal shot in her, a skill she will no doubt continue to use at Ajax in the Eredivisie. She has scored some cracking goals for the team. Her most notable (but nowhere near her best) goal was that free kick in the final against Denmark in 2017. It was a low shot past the Danish wall, while everyone probably expected her to kick the ball high.
The down-to-earth player from Sneek could pick out some great passes as well. To name another example from the 2017 Euros final: her long ball over the top to find Vivianne Miedema, who turned Spitse’s pass into an assist, was a beauty. In her hay days she would also effortlessly control the pace in midfield. When she missed out on the Olympics, her absence as the anchor in midfield was notable. The team struggled to keep their defensive shape throughout the tournament, conceding a whopping 10 goals in 4 matches.
An ending international career
She was however losing out to opponents increasingly later in her international career. She was moved back a line to play at centre back, making up for her deteriorating pace, under head coach Andries Jonker in 2023. But, in her final two years as an international player, the criticism swelled. Spitse started the Euros this summer on the bench.
And now, she is retiring. In an interview with the KNVB (the Dutch FA), Spitse said her priorities have changed. She wants to spend more time with her children and focus on her club, Ajax. She also wants to become a coach when her playing career ends definitively. She said: “singing the Wilhelmus every time and being allowed to wear that shirt, that’s what fills me with pride.”
And so, in the 48th minute on her 248th cap, Spitse was subbed off to a standing ovation by the spectators and a guard of honour by the Dutch and Canadian players. She addressed the crowd emotionally after the match, flanked by her two children Jens and Mila.
Let’s not let the recency bias dictate our feelings towards Spitse too much. She was an anchor in the Dutch team for many years, contributing to a lot of successes like the Euro 2017 win. Always available when the team needed her to be, a leader when prompted and unprompted. It’s definitely the start of a new era for the Oranje Leeuwinnen.
Above: The England side that lined up to face Australia. Photo: The Lionesses on X.
By Ava-Marianne Elliott at Pride Park (28/10/25)
The back-to-back European Champions claimed a dominant 3-0 victory at Derby County’s Pride Park after an early red card from Alanna Kennedy left Australia with ten players, but two second-half injury concerns to Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones dampened the win.
The teams
Last weekend brought a loss for England against a ten-player Brazil in the first game of their ‘homecoming series’ after winning the Euro’s for the second time on the trot. Despite the game not being as negative as it seemed, it felt largely crucial that the Lionesses achieved a win this time out.
Reflecting the experimental nature of this window, Sarina Wiegman named six changes to the starting lineup from the weekend, notably introducing debutants Taylor Hinds and Lucia Kendall, who both received their first Senior call up this window.
Fresh off the back of a win in Cardiff against Wales, a second win for Australia would add another positive to their international window. Under Joe Montemurro the side are still largely finding their feet, searching for combinations that achieve the best outcome before the Women’s Asian Cup in March next year.
To match a side with quality attack, the Matildas had four changes introduced, all of which coming in defensive positions.
The action
The first-half consisted largely of the Lionesses’ dominating the field. The opening minutes saw opportunities for both sides, with Kennedy taking an early ambitious shot and England facing disappointment as Beever-Jones’ early goal was chalked off for offside.
It was Beever-Jones’ who claimed the first viable goal of the evening, after pressure badgered Kennedy into a misstep that led her to drag Alessia Russo down just outside the box. The defender was shown a straight red and the visitors were down to ten just 20 minutes in.
Beever-Jones’ initial shot from the freekick hit the bottom of the wall, but bounced back for a second chance which she cleanly sent into the top left-hand side of goal.
A chance shone through for Australia when Ellie Carpenter made a clever run on the counter down the right-hand channel, sending a cross to Sam Kerr who forced Hannah Hampton to push the ball out for a corner. Just as the energy picked up, the momentum was killed when the flag went up for offside after Steph Catley’s corner.
England’s second goal came towards the end of the half. Despite some excellent initial defending from the visitors in a box overcrowded with England shirts, Lucy Bronze struck a low shot past Arnold into an uncovered bottom left corner, doubling their lead before the break.
The second half was a relatively quiet affair, with the visitors doubling down on their defensive efforts. As the game crept into extra time it looked as if the last 45 would remain goalless, until misfortune struck again in the final moments of extra time, when VAR granted England a penalty.
Georgia Stanway, despite being denied by an incredible save from Arnold earlier in the half, stepped up to the spot and confidently buried the third before the whistle signalled full time.
Post-match thoughts
England’s presence on the pitch tonight was top-notch. Everything seemed to align and the dynamic the team produced ensured all the connections across the pitch clicked. In the end, it just proved to be a code that the visitors were unable to crack. Overall, the performance was a huge positive, especially when there were a few new partnerships and players on the field.
Wiegman’s side were relatively untested, dominating the possession. England were largely on top, even before Kennedy’s mishap that made the rest of the match more difficult and put the Matildas in a position of disadvantage.
Despite the negatives in Australia’s performance, one positive shone through in the form of Heatley. Although one of the younger, less experienced players on the pitch, her performance today radiated composure and maturity.
Above:Steph Catley scores for Australia.Photo:Football Australia.
Steph Catley spoke to the media following a 2-1 win against Cymru in Cardiff this past weekend, reflecting on her takeaways from the victory and her hopes for the Matildas’ upcoming clash against England this Wednesday.
Catley was absent from the match against the Welsh side, having come into camp late, just a few days prior to the meeting; however, the defender had a lot to say about her squad’s performance and what it means going into the remainder of this international window, and ultimately the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
“We’re capable of playing some really, really great football. And I think Joe (Montemurro) really believes in those sorts of foundations, in the style of possession-based football.”
The primary aim for the Matildas this internation window will be to build upon already established tactics and relationships, under the fresh guise of head coach Joe Montemurro, who took on the position earlier this year, and has already brought an innovative style of play to the squad in his short time with them.
“The main thing for us is trying to build an identity again in the way that we play. And I think, you know, we’ve got players that are playing in some of the best leagues and some of the best teams around the world and in Europe.”
While they’re looking at each of these games for what they are, as individual opportunities to grow as a team, the upcoming Asian Cup is always at the back of mind.
“To win a major trophy with this team would mean absolutely everything to me. and I know the girls feel exactly the same way.”
With just three friendly matches to go ahead of an incredibly high-stakes tournament, pressure is at an all-time high for the Matildas, as the Asian Cup serves as not only a major home tournament, but as qualifiers for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
“We’ve got a short amount of time, but we’re working really, really hard to do it.”
Success in these upcoming matches feels more in reach than ever for Catley after taking home the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Arsenal earlier in the year. The history-making victory gave the Matildas captain a new sense of belief and motivation to bring home that kind of success for her country, saying the taste of victory “wakes something up, a new, a little extra drive to want to win things, because you know it’s possible, you know, how it feels.”
“I think it just gives you a sense that anything’s possible in football.”
Despite playing most of her Matilda’s career at left-back, Catley recently received A Ballon d’Or nomination for her performance at centre back at Arsenal, and while she believes that consistency in positioning may be of benefit in the lead up to the Asian Cup, it is moree so a credit to the diversity in her own game, as well as the squad.
“I think for a coach, especially like Joe, if he has players that can play multiple positions, leading into a tournament,” says Catley. “If you get an injury or something happens to a player that’s supposed to play a certain position, being able to play multiple times is really handy in that situation” she added.
Her time at Arsenal has not only developed her tactically, but has provided the unique opportunity to get to know many of her England opponents, playing with and against them regularly in The Women’s Super League each week.
“I think there’s always an advantage in knowing the players that you’re going to play against.”
The last time the Matildas took on the Lionesses was in a devastating World Cup semi-final, in which Australia took a 3-1 loss to their opponents. Since then, England have gone on to win their second consecutive UEFA Women’s Euros titles, and the intensity of this clash is not lost on Catley.
“That was probably one of the most heartbreaking games I’ve played in my career. So, yeah, there’s definitely wounds there and you do remember those moments, but like I said, it’s a fresh new project and a new challenge for us.”
“It’s almost like a sibling rivalry in a way, I think it becomes really, really competitive, especially because we probably know each other so well.”
While having such familiarity with a vast majority of the England squad has better prepared the Matildas for this match, in comparison to their last meeting, Catley is aware that “It also gives them the same sort of upper hand because they know us really, really well.”
“We’re in a completely different stage now with our team, different coach, different players, different tournaments. But, I think you can’t help but remember past games when you come up against the same opposition.”
The Lionesses’ attacking front line will be a main point of contention for the Matildas, especially for Catley, as she looks to build up a defense that could often be described as lacking depth.
“It’s something that we’ve always talked about as a squad, as being probably one of our weaknesses going into a major tournament, is that maybe we haven’t got the depth that we’ve wanted.”
Despite this weakness, it is the innate awareness of it that is helping build the squad to the place it needs to be in order for Australia’s defense to hold their own over a threat as heavy as England.
With a number of defenders having such a versatile style of play, including players such as Alanna Kennedy being able to play further forward, or Courtney Nevin, who recently scored while remaining strong at the back, Catley is confident that the depth is far into development, and the combinations needed to hold their own are there.
“It’s just about bringing them in together and sort of seeing that happening in a fluid way, that benefits each other on the field and brings the best out of you.”
“I’ve represented this team and my country for many, many years, and it’s always been the most important thing to me in a way, it means so much every time I put the shirt on.”
Above all, representing Australia is the most important thing to Catley. The gravity of the opportunity has not been lost on the defender, and has shined through especially during her time as captain over the past two years.
“I try to bring who I am off the pitch, on the pitch,” says Catley, “Whether I’ve got the armband on or not, I’ll continue to do the same thing.”
The Matildas will take on England Lionesses on Wednesday, 29th October at 6 am AEDT, with the match to be streamed on Paramount+.
Above: Caitlin Foord and Courtney Nevin for Australia. Photo: Football Australia
Australia have begun the latest international window with a 2-1 win over Cymru in Cardiff.
Goals to Courtney Nevin and Caitlin Foord secured the victory despite a classy second half finish from Mared Griffiths.
Joe Montemurro had an almost full strength lineup at his disposal, but vice captains Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter were kept in reserve, with Nevin and Kaitlyn Torpey chosen over the rested stars.
Winonah Heatley started in central defence, partnering Clare Hunt with Montemurro placing trust in the paid who have both been in the first XI at their respective clubs.
The Matildas midfield was a combination of Katrina Gorry and Kyra Cooney-Cross. The World Cup partnership was reunited for the first time since the Paris Olympics but were anchored by Clare Wheeler. The Everton captain finally getting her chance to impress the new coach.
In attack, the headlines were made. Sam Kerr was in the starting lineup. The returning superstar was flanked by Caitlin Foord and Hayley Raso who wore the armband in her 100th cap.
Montemurro had forecast a possession based game, but it was obvious from kickoff that it should not be confused with slow play.
Australia tried to move the ball quickly to wide attacking areas. Although for the most part the ball was kept on the ground, the passes were often direct and aggressive.
Heatley’s ability with both feet was a real asset in bringing the ball out of defence and the overlapping Torpey was energetic on the right.
The opening goal for fortuitous. Nevin curled a free kick into the near post, and Kerr’s typically well timed run did enough to distract the goalkeeper and allow the ball to fly into the net.
Jess Fishlock came close to an equaliser in her farewell game, but her excellent half volley was caught by Teagan Micah.
Despite being the more attacking of the two teams, Australia’s style and movement still came with risks. In the 55th minute Cymru took advantage.
Nevin was caught high up the pitch, and the rest of the defence were equally out of position when Griffiths was allowed space at the back of the penalty box and time to turn.
Despite this, the finish was all class as she lofted the ball over Micah with a perfect chip.
Australia made some changes midway through the second half. Carpenter, Holly McNamara and Amy Sayer all entered the game. Alanna Kennedy also came on into midfield and all the substitutes made an impact.
Kennedy’s presence allowed Cooney-Cross to play a more advanced role and the Arsenal midfielder was on the end of a move involving Carpenter that gave her space to cross for Foord to shoot at the top of the six-yard box.
The goal was enough to win the match and boost confidence, but as always there are pros and cons to any performance.
As good as the wingers were, Australia’s attack looked a little repetitive.
The main Matildas plan of attack looked to be getting it wide and cutting the ball back to the goalmouth.
This did eventually result in the winning shot, and makes sense as a plan A because Raso and Foord are two of Australia’s best and most consistent players, but ideally they will need to find other ways to create chances.
Over time the development of players like Daniela Galic, the return of Mary Fowler and the potential use of Emily Van Egmond may improve this.
In defence, Heatley was a stand out. She is fast, two-footed, brave in possession and well positioned without the ball.
The Roma centre back is already a fan favourite and an equally impressive outing against England should cement her position as the first choice central defender or best understudy should Catley take up that role.
Defensively, Australia were solid in formation, but a better team would punish some of the turnovers and occasional errors.
Overall, this was a strong if unspectacular performance, but that is to be expected with a team and manager still finding their best combinations.
The issue remains that time is running out to do that, but on the strength of this win, it looks like things are headed in the right direction.
Lineups: Cymru: Middleton-Patel, Evan’s, Ingle, Zimmerman, Holland, James, Fishlock, Cain, Ladd, M Griffiths, Morgan. Substitutes: Clark, Soper, Estcourt, Scarlett, Ross, Filby, Hill, A Griffiths, Jones, Hughes, Teisar, Mcateer.
Above: the England starting eleven. Photo: @Lionesses on X.
It was a battle of Champions in Manchester as the Euros-winning Lionesses hosted the Copa América victors Brazil in a friendly. Brasil ended with the win, after scoring two early goals against a makeshift England defence.
Context
Fresh off the back of their victorious run at the 2025 Euros, England billed the match as the start of their Homecoming series. With the World Cup two years away, the Lionesses are in a relatively quiet period, which brings with it the opportunity for friendlies. Brasil are fresh from success themselves, a Copa América victory in hand – a final that was also won via penalties, against Columbia.
Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman called this camp a ‘new cycle’, a phrase which certainly feels apt: the team is undergoing a period of transition, with retirements (Millie Bright, Fran Kirby, Mary Earps), and injuries (Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze, Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, Katie Reid, Jess Park, Grace Clinton). New players have been embedded, and there is a sense that the new tournament cycle will signal a changing of the guard.
The action
Fast counter-attacks saw Brasil easily take an early lead. Exploiting England’s lack of pace through the middle, Dudinha passed to Kansas City’s Bia Zaneratto who slotted home with little resistance from the home side. Dudinha made it two ten minutes later, just before captain Angelina was sent off for denying Ella Toone a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
Following the red card, England took control of the game. They created a flurry of chances – the best being Alex Greenwood’s free-kick which hit the bar – but were not clinical enough in the final third. They struggled to find star striker Alessia Russo, particularly in the first half.
England regained their focus for the second half and dominated from the restart, with 79% of the possession and 13 shots to Brasil’s one, with two on target. The Lionesses also hit the woodwork and forced Lorena in the Brasilian goal into a number of saves. Despite a typically strong penalty from Georgia Stanway, the hosts’ late onslaught was not enough to seal the win.
Post-match thoughts
Ahead of the match, Wiegman said she wanted the Lionessses to stay out of duels and avoid getting pulled into a physical competition. Whilst they managed this well for large parts of the game, the opening period saw the home side struggle to cope. It is perhaps unsurprising – a new goalkeeper and a backline that have rarely played together will always take time to gel.
Going forward, England were frustrated. The front three of Russo, Beth Mead and Chloe Kelly all play for the same club, and have had a tendency at club to play one too many passes in the opposition box, giving their opponents time to clear the ball. This seemed to be at play here: when there were opportunities to shoot, the ball was instead passed, as the Lionesses tried to walk the ball into the goal.
Overall, whilst there tends to be panic whenever England lose, it was not an altogether poor performance. The Lionesses dominated the entire second half, however the visitors’ shift to a defensive back five ensured they saw out the win. Where England will be most frustrated is in conceding early once again – two goals within the opening twenty minutes. This has become a trend over the last year; one that Wiegman will be eager to iron out before their next competitive fixture.
The Lionesses return to action on Tuesday against Australia.
TEAMS: ENGLAND (4-2-3-1): Keating, Le Tissier, Morgan, Carter, Greenwood, Walsh, Stanway, Kelly, Toone, Mead, Russo. Substitutes: Moorhouse, Baggaley, Bronze (for Carter 63′), Fisk, Hinds, Charles, Hinds, Blinkilde-Brown, Kendall, Kearns, Beever-Jones (for Kelly 63′), Naz, Agyemang (for Stanway 83′).
Above: Sam Kerr arriving to Cardiff. Photo: via Commbank Matildas
By Callum Logie (25/10/2025)
Sam Kerr has announced her intention to return to a leadership role for the Matildas upon her return to the squad after nearly two years out from an ACL injury.
Speaking to the press in Cardiff ahead of the Matilda’s upcoming friendly against Wales, Kerr spoke about her passion for the team and how she feels she has a lot to give to the side in a leadership role.
“On being the captain, of course I still feel really passionate about that,” said Kerr.
“I have so much more to give this team in a leadership role. This team here will make football decisions, and I feel like football-wise, I’m one of the best leaders in the team. I feel really passionate and proud that I’ve been in that position before, and hopefully continue forward.”
Arsenal’s Steph Catley has taken the captain’s armband during Kerr’s absence and has done an admirable job leading the team for that near two year period. Coach Joe Montemurro indicated that bringing Kerr back into the squad will be at the same gradual pace that her club side Chelsea has been implementing since her return.
Kerr spoke candidly about her recovery period for the injury, sharing about the mental struggles of working through such a level of rehabilitation, especially when receiving treatment for a previous undiagnosed injury.
“I struggled a little bit in the first nine months with a few setbacks,” Kerr said.
“As an athlete, you go up and down in self-belief and self-doubt when you’re injured. It’s hard to be away from the game.”
Being the competitive leader she has always been, Kerr has expressed frustration toward her limited minutes with Chelsea upon her return, indicating that she was eager to contribute more now that she was able to play again.
“I’ve come back from my injury, but there’s a year-and-a-half of no football behind me, so it’s been quite frustrating because I want to play as many minutes as possible, but there have been people a lot smarter than me holding me back a little bit,” Kerr said.
“I’m definitely not 90-minute fit. I think I’ve got about 70 minutes in me. That’s what I would say. Every day, every session is helpful for me, because I’ve had a year-and-a-half out of football, so I just need more sessions, more game time. I’m fully fit, but I’m about 70-80 per cent game fit.”
Kerr was pleased with her reintegration into the Matilda’s set-up indicating that coach Joe Montemurro allowed her to come back into the squad and play with the group on her terms.
“I’ve just come in and the only meetings I’ve attended, which has been really nice to be honest, have been the team meetings. I think everyone is just giving me space to just come back and enjoy myself and be free, come back in and play football.” Kerr said.
While eager to get involved in the friendly on Sunday, next year’s Asian Cup remains the key focus for Kerr and the Matildas.
“I’ve had a long time out of football, and the Asian Cup is the most important thing to me coming up, so there’s no need to rush it,” she said.
“The Asian Cup is so important. When I last won it, I was a young 16-year-old kid, so I didn’t even really get to experience what it actually was like. Looking back, I was living my dream without even knowing it, so it would be good to hopefully lift the trophy. It would be a dream come true.”
Above:Annalie Longo (right) battles with her Mexican opponent. Photo:via Mexico Football
By Jonathon Hagger (24/10/2025)
MEXICO 1 – 0 NEW ZEALAND
The first of a trio of friendly matches for the New Zealand Football Ferns this international window did not go well for the travelling Football Ferns, after an early Aaliyah Farmer goal saw Mexico saw the Ferns lose to Mexico 1-0.
The first goal scoring opportunity came about in the eighth minute as a deflected pass fell at the feet of an unmarked Lizbeth Ovalle in the Ferns goal area, which was ultimately deflected out for a corner kick by a fully outstretched Liz Anton.
The Mexican women went ahead with the first goal of the match off a well taken corner kick that baffled the Ferns defenders, who appeared to be unaware of their required positional roles. An uncleared ball found the feet of Farmer who easily slotted the ball into the next, giving Mexico an early lead in the 9th minute.
The Mexican women played a possession-based game throughout the first half, building in phases and advancing confidently down the pitch. Whereas the Ferns – who were unable to keep possession for any length of time – resorted to playing counterattack football which was easily shut down by a well drilled defensive unit.
The remainder of the first fell into a slow rhythm with the Mexican women closing any opportunities for the Ferns, while the Ferns absorbed relentless pressure fending off wave after wave of attack. Halftime was taken with the score remaining at Mexico 1 – 0 to the Football Ferns.
The second half started in the same way that the first half finished – Mexico holding the ball deep inside the Ferns half, waiting for opportunities to present themselves, and attempting to score. Shots on goal and attempts to score played out in the first five minutes with the Ferns, once again, sitting on their heels trying desperately to at least get the ball through to the attacking midfielders but alas, without success.
An uncharacteristic lapse of concentration in the Mexican team created an opening for the Ferns to score in the 52nd minute. Poor clearance actions by Mexico gave the Ferns a rare chance to score as a well weighted chip by Michaela Foster into the path of a fast-moving Milly Clegg, forced the goalkeeper to punch the ball away into safety.
The introduction of Manaia Elliott provided some spark for the Ferns as she controlled the ball well on the left flank. Elliott injected herself into the play energetically right from her first touch of the ball.
The Ferns secured their first real goal scoring opportunity in the 63rd minute from a very irregular lack of clearance by Mexico. Kelli Brown fired a solid shot from the top of the goal area, forcing the Mexican goalkeeper into action. The shot was saved, and the Ferns earned an attacking corner. In the same way as the rest of the match, the attack was shut down by a dominant Mexican defensive unit.
The match snapped out of its lackluster speed beginning in the 75th minute as a defensive high press forced the Ferns into turning over possession of the ball in their own half. A strong shot struck from 10 feet out from the goal area by Montserrat Saldívar required Victoria Esson to activate her reflexes and force the ball away.
Mexico’s next threatening play came in the 81st minute with a speculative shot on goal by Ovalle that was taken with two hands by Esson, which was then followed up a mere minute later with the Mexican women stringing together passes that cut through weak Ferns defence.
Not wanting to settle for just one goal, the Mexican women upped the ante in the final five minutes of the match with wave after wave of attack. The Ferns defenders were caught floundering as the attackers ran past and through them. Esson’s heroics as goalkeeper made all the difference and saved the Ferns from an even bigger loss.
The Mexican women can take a lot of positives from the match as their chemistry was good and the quality of passing excellent. The Ferns on the other hand have a lot of work to do if they are going to keep attempting to implement the coaches’ desired system.
NEW ZEALAND: Esson, Anton, Foster, Taylor (54’), Hahn, Hand (54’), Kitching (78’), Longo (54’), Riley, Brown (63’), Clegg (63’). Substitutes: Barry, Blake, Bowen (54’), Bunge, Elliott (54’), Jackson (78’), Lake, Moore (54’), Neville, Pijnenburg (63’), Rennie (63’), Wall, Santos.
impetusfootball.org 