The Matildas are grappling with a goalkeeping crisis on the eve of the Women's Asian Cup, as coach Joe Montemurro refuses to confirm his starting lineup for Sunday's opener against the Philippines in Perth.
Veteran Mackenzie Arnold, expected to start after Teagan Micah withdrew with concussion, has not trained fully with the squad. Montemurro stated, 'There's no decisions made yet for anyone playing... We'll make some decisions in the next 24 hours.'
Arnold, a hero of the 2023 World Cup, has trained lightly alongside Jada Whyman (uncapped) and Chloe Lincoln (three caps). Morgan Aquino, another uncapped keeper, is training but not in the 26-player squad.
Other injury concerns include captain Sam Kerr, who admitted she is 'about 85%' fit after a knee injury, and midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross, who missed training to be with her mother, who has incurable cancer. Montemurro said her absence was 'all precaution.'
Forward Mary Fowler, recovering from a knee injury, said she feels 'really good' after starting for Manchester City. Philippines coach Mark Torcaso, an Australian, said his team will 'be annoying and constantly pushing' in the match.
