The Matildas face an injury crisis on the eve of the Women's Asian Cup, with uncertainty surrounding the fitness of goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold. Coach Joe Montemurro refused to confirm his lineup 24 hours before the tournament opener against the Philippines on Sunday.
Arnold, a hero of the 2023 World Cup, has not trained fully with the squad in Perth after Teagan Micah withdrew due to concussion. Montemurro said decisions on the starting 11 would be made in the next 24 hours, with medical staff monitoring the situation.
Kyra Cooney-Cross has also had a disrupted preparation after returning to Australia to spend time with her mother, who has incurable bile duct cancer. Montemurro described her absence from training on Saturday as precautionary.
Captain Sam Kerr admitted she is still short of full fitness, estimating she is at 85% in her recovery from a knee injury suffered in January 2024. Forward Mary Fowler is also recovering from a knee injury but said she feels 'really good' after starting her first match for Manchester City.
Philippines coach Mark Torcaso, an Australian, said his team would be 'annoying and constantly pushing' against the Matildas, acknowledging the special occasion of facing his home country.
