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Matildas Captain Kerr Set for First Home Match in Over 2 Years
17 Nov
Summary
- Matildas captain Sam Kerr to play on Australian soil for first time since 2023
- Matildas squad faces New Zealand in two friendlies in late November and early December
- Coach Joe Montemurro makes only 3 changes to the squad despite recent loss to England
As the Matildas gear up for next year's Asian Cup, a familiar set of faces is set to take on New Zealand later this month. The most notable inclusion is captain Sam Kerr, who is poised to play on Australian soil for the first time in more than two years.
Kerr, who has overcome multiple injuries, returned to the Matildas squad last month and will be joined by 23 other teammates for the two-match series against New Zealand on November 28 and December 2.
Despite a disappointing loss to England in the side's last friendly, coach Joe Montemurro has opted to make just three changes to the squad. The most high-profile omission is Cortnee Vine, the Matildas' hero from the 2023 World Cup, who misses out along with Morgan Aquino and Jamilla Rankin. They are replaced by Kahli Johnson, Chloe Lincoln, and Tameka Yallop.
The Matildas' upcoming matches against New Zealand will serve as crucial preparation for the Asian Cup, which is set to take place next year. With Kerr back in the fold and the core of the squad intact, the team will be looking to bounce back from their recent defeat and build momentum ahead of the continental tournament.
