The AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 kicks off on Sunday, with Australia hosting matches in Perth, the Gold Coast and Sydney. The Matildas aim to bounce back from their quarter-final exit in the 2022 tournament, where they were defeated by South Korea.
Star forward Hayley Raso says the team is ready to meet high expectations. The tournament runs from 1 to 21 March, featuring 12 teams and 27 matches across five stadiums, including Perth Stadium and Stadium Australia.
Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler are in the 26-person squad. Kerr, returning from an 18-month injury layoff, hopes to start in her hometown Perth games. Fowler also recently recovered from an ACL injury.
The opening match on 1 March sees Australia face the Philippines at Perth Stadium, with a performance by Audrey Nuna. China PR, holders of nine titles and winners of the last edition, are a key rival but rank lower than Australia, Japan and Korea DPR.
Australia ranks third in Asia and 15th globally. The team has adapted to new coach Joe Montemurro, who emphasises ball control. Eight players will make their Asian Cup debut.
