With key goalkeepers Micah and Whyman ruled out and Arnold facing uncertainty, tonight's tournament opener will see Chloe Lincoln take up the gloves for the Matildas. Lincoln, aged 21, was only called into the squad following Micah's withdrawal, marking a significant opportunity in her young career.
Rising Star in National Team Setup
Capped three times by the Matildas, Lincoln has long been highly-rated within the national team framework. She has previously been part of two Young Matildas squads that competed at U20 World Cups, showcasing her potential on the international stage. Currently in season with her club, she holds an advantage over Arnold, who is still in pre-season with her NWSL side, Portland Thorns.
Form Concerns and Reputation
However, Lincoln's call-up is largely attributed to her longstanding reputation within the national team setup, rather than her recent club form. Playing for Brisbane Roar in the A-League Women, she has conceded more goals than any other keeper this season, with an average of 1.9 goals per game. According to Fotmob data, she has prevented -6.4 goals, the worst figure in the competition, raising questions about her current performance levels.
Despite these statistics, the Matildas' coaching staff have placed their trust in Lincoln's experience and potential, hoping she can rise to the occasion in this crucial tournament match. Her selection highlights the balance between form and reputation in high-stakes sports decisions.
