Matildas Take a Chance on Mary Fowler's Fitness for Women's Asian Cup
The Matildas have announced their 26-player squad for the upcoming Women's Asian Cup, with star attacker Mary Fowler included despite ongoing fitness concerns. Head coach Joe Montemurro has selected Fowler, who has played only 15 minutes since recovering from a serious knee injury, falling short of his earlier target of three full matches before the tournament.
Key Absences and Veteran Leadership
In contrast, defender Charli Grant has been omitted due to a knee injury sustained in November, continuing a difficult period for the versatile player. Veteran midfielder Tameka Yallop also misses out because of a hamstring issue. Captain Sam Kerr will lead the squad at her fifth Asian Cup, aiming to replicate the success of her 2010 debut campaign where Australia lifted the trophy.
Eight players are set to make their tournament debut, while stalwarts like Steph Catley, Ellie Carpenter, Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, Katrina Gorry, Emily van Egmond, and Alanna Kennedy have been named. The team will open the Asian Cup against the Philippines in Perth on March 1, followed by matches against Iran on the Gold Coast on March 5 and South Korea in Sydney on March 8.
Fowler's Road to Recovery and Squad Dynamics
Fowler, 23, is included in the hope that she can contribute creatively as she continues her comeback from an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered last April. She made a brief appearance for Manchester City in February but has not played since due to a minor setback. Her last match for the Matildas was in April 2023, just before her ACL tear.
Montemurro emphasized the squad's blend of experience and youth, stating, "Selecting a squad is never easy, but it is a privilege to bring together players who truly represent the identity and spirit of the Matildas. 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."
Other Squad Highlights and Challenges
Midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross has been included despite limited recent playing time, as she deals with her mother's serious health diagnosis. However, Cortnee Vine, a hero from the World Cup quarter-final penalty shootout, is not in the squad as she focuses on her club career in the United States.
Grant's absence marks another setback for the defender, who missed the Paris Olympics and saw limited action during the 2023 Women's World Cup. Montemurro expressed confidence in the team's readiness, saying, "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."
The full squad includes goalkeepers Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah, and Chloe Lincoln; defenders such as Clare Hunt and Courtney Nevin; midfielders like Clare Wheeler and Alex Chidiac; and forwards including Holly McNamara and Michelle Heyman.
