Matildas Squad Announced for FIFA Series Matches in Kenya: Key Players Missing, Newcomers Debut
The Australian national women's soccer team, the Matildas, have announced their squad for the upcoming FIFA Series matches in Kenya. The team will be missing several key players, including Mary Fowler, for the friendly matches against Malawi and either Kenya or India. The matches will be the Matildas' first since the Women's Asian Cup final loss to Japan. The squad includes stars like Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord, and Alanna Kennedy, but notable absentees include Ellie Carpenter and Kyra Cooney-Cross. Defender Clare Hunt will also miss the matches due to injury.
Matildas coach Joe Montemurro will use the FIFA Series as an opportunity to develop the team's playing style ahead of the Women's World Cup in Brazil next year. Newcomer Leticia McKenna will make her Matildas debut, while Jessika Nash and Isabel Gomez return to international duty. Sam Kerr will lead the team as captain, with Steph Catley as her deputy. Montemurro emphasized the importance of the matches in Kenya for building consistency and preparing for the global stage.
The FIFA Series in Kenya will provide the Matildas with unique challenges and exposure to different playing styles as they continue their preparations for the Women's World Cup. The squad is looking to build on their performance at the Asian Cup and establish a strong foundation for future success. The matches will be a crucial opportunity for the team to test themselves against diverse opposition and refine their tactics ahead of the upcoming major tournaments.