Matildas' Mackenzie Arnold Says National Team Camp Feels Like a High School Reunion
Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold has likened national team camps to high school reunions as the Australian women's football squad prepares to assemble in Perth from across the globe for the upcoming Asian Cup. Arnold, a fan favourite, will take on the crucial role of No.1 shot-stopper for the team's blockbuster campaign, which kicks off with a match against the Philippines at Optus Stadium on Sunday.
Stars Gather in Perth for Asian Cup Campaign
Star forward Hayley Raso, who plays for Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany, was among the first players to arrive in Perth, touching down on Sunday. Other key players, including captain and hometown hero Sam Kerr and Manchester City striker Mary Fowler, are expected to join the camp early this week. The last time the Matildas gathered in Perth, it was for Kerr's wedding, adding a personal touch to the reunion atmosphere.
"It always feels a bit like a high school reunion once everyone is in the country," Arnold told Stellar magazine. "When I was in London, a lot of us lived there, so we could see each other between camps," she explained. "Now I go months without seeing the girls. It's exciting getting back, especially when it's for a longer period, being at a major tournament."
Arnold's Journey and Tournament Expectations
Arnold, who became a national hero during Australia's historic World Cup run three years ago with a series of famous saves in a penalty shoot-out against France, has faced challenges since then. She has changed clubs, lost her place in the side, and battled injuries over the past three years. However, on the eve of another major tournament in front of adoring home fans, she has caught a break with goalkeeping colleague Teagan Micah ruled out due to concussion, putting Arnold at the forefront once again.
"We have a lot of people coming back in healthy now, with Sam (Kerr) and Mary (Fowler) and everyone," Arnold said. "There are a lot of expectations we are definitely aware of. We don't want to put too much pressure on ourselves just yet, but we know there's a big opportunity at this tournament."
Despite moving from London's West Ham to Portland in the United States, Arnold vividly recalls that unforgettable night in Brisbane. "It's been three years now and I still remember it like it was yesterday," she shared. "It was such an unbelievable feeling. It was such a high."
As the Matildas gear up for the Asian Cup, the team's camaraderie and Arnold's leadership will be key factors in their quest for success on home soil.
