Matildas Dominate New Zealand in Friendly Ahead of AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026

On the evening of Friday, November 28, 2025, the CommBank Matildas took to the field at Polytec Stadium in Gosford to face the New Zealand Football Ferns in a friendly that promised intensity and anticipation. With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 fast approaching, this match represented an essential opportunity for head coach Joe Montemurro to test his squad, refine tactics, and give players valuable game time before the continental tournament kicks off. The stadium was alive with fans eager to see Australia’s top female footballers in action, and the excitement was palpable as kickoff approached.

From the opening whistle, the Matildas demonstrated why they are considered one of the premier teams in women’s football. Amy Sayer set the tone early with a sharp, decisive finish that gave Australia the lead in the 13th minute and sent the crowd into celebration. The goal marked the beginning of a dominant display that would see the Matildas control possession and tempo for much of the night. Hayley Raso and Ellie Carpenter continued the onslaught, combining pace, skill, and precision to carve open the New Zealand defense. Midway through the first half, Kyra Cooney-Cross produced a moment that will be remembered by fans for years to come, unleashing a stunning long-range strike from around halfway that flew past the goalkeeper and left the crowd in awe. Katrina Gorry later sealed the victory with a composed finish late in the game, completing a five-goal performance that left no doubt about Australia’s superiority on the night.

Even with Sam Kerr sidelined due to a calf tightness, the squad showed remarkable depth and cohesion. The attacking lines worked seamlessly, moving the ball quickly and finding space in dangerous areas. The midfield controlled the pace, distributed accurately, and provided both defensive cover and creative opportunities. Defensively, the Matildas were disciplined and organized, allowing the Football Ferns very few clear chances and effectively neutralizing any attempts to counterattack. The combination of strategic planning, technical ability, and team chemistry was on full display, signaling that Australia is entering the Asian Cup with both confidence and momentum.

Off the pitch, the atmosphere was electric. Fans packed Polytec Stadium, waving banners, chanting, and showing their unwavering support. The energy in the stands mirrored the intensity on the field, creating a matchday experience that reflected the growing popularity and excitement surrounding women’s football in Australia. The crowd’s reaction to every goal, defensive stop, and creative play made it clear that the Matildas enjoy not just a loyal following but a passionate community of supporters who are invested in every moment of their journey.

This match was the first of a two-game friendly series, with the second set to take place today, at Coopers Stadium in Adelaide. Both matches serve as crucial preparation for the Asian Cup, giving players the chance to sharpen their skills, experiment with tactics, and build cohesion across the squad. Friday night’s victory, by such a decisive margin, provides not just a confidence boost but also a statement to competitors in the region: the Matildas are in peak form and ready to challenge for the title on home soil.

The five-nil triumph is more than a numerical result; it reflects the squad’s versatility, tactical awareness, and the strong depth that ensures the team can perform at a high level regardless of absences. It also highlights the emergence of new leaders within the squad, such as Cooney-Cross, who delivered one of the match’s standout moments, and the consistent performances of Sayer, Carpenter, and Raso. These players not only contributed to the scoreline but also demonstrated the qualities that will be vital in high-stakes matches during the Asian Cup.

As the Matildas look ahead to the second friendly and then the tournament proper, the mood is optimistic. Friday night was a reminder of their potential, a showcase of their skills, and a celebration of the team’s unity. Fans can take heart from the performance, knowing that the Matildas are not just capable of winning but capable of doing so in style, with flair, determination, and a sense of purpose that is hard to match. The journey to the Asian Cup is underway, and if this performance is anything to go by, the Matildas are ready to make their mark on the international stage.