Matildas Fall to Lowly Ranked Opponent
BUNBURY, AUSTRALIA, JUL 5 – Panama, ranked 56th, won despite 29 fouls and four debutants in the Australian squad, highlighting physical dominance in the friendly match.
- On Saturday in Bunbury, the understrength Matildas lost 1-0 to Panama at Hands Oval, marking Joe Montemurro’s first defeat as coach.
- Montemurro's 10-man rotation left the Matildas without key regulars while debuting four newcomers at Bunbury.
- In a physical encounter, the match featured 29 fouls, five yellow cards for Panama, and Sherline King’s goal in the 59th minute secured the visitors' victory.
- Montemurro praised debutants' promise despite concern over the loss as the Matildas prepare for a quick rematch at HBF Park in Perth.
- Ahead of Tuesday’s rematch at HBF Park, Montemurro maintains that short-term pain from the loss will enhance team development long-term.
16 Articles
16 Articles
Secret weapons saving the Matildas in Sam Kerr’s absence
Coach Joe Montemurro won league titles with Arsenal, Juventus and Lyon, now he’s using the same secrets to prepare the Matildas for the AFC Asian Cup at home in March 2026. The rebuilding Matildas are set to face Panama at HBF Park in Perth on Tuesday night, with plenty of room for improvement before the AFC Asian Cup in March 2026
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