SYDNEY, Feb 19, (V7N) — Coach Joe Montemurro has promised an exciting and proactive style of football as Australia seeks to capture its second Women's Asian Cup title. The Matildas, who are hosting the tournament from March 1-21, will be led by captain Sam Kerr and supported by key players like Mary Fowler and Steph Catley.

Australia's lone Women’s Asian Cup win came in 2010, with the team finishing as runners-up in 2014 and 2018. As hosts, the Matildas are determined to reclaim the trophy on home soil.

“My approach to the game is always to play a brand of football that excites, that's proactive,” Montemurro said. “It’s important to me that we put on a good showcase and entertain.”

The squad for the upcoming competition includes several seasoned players: Kerr, who will captain the team in her fifth Asian Cup, alongside stalwarts such as Catley, Ellie Carpenter, Alanna Kennedy, Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, and Kyra Cooney-Cross. Manchester City's Fowler, making her return to the squad after knee reconstruction, is also a key addition.

Montemurro named eight players set to make their first Asian Cup appearance, including Tottenham defender Clare Hunt and Newcastle striker Kaitlyn Torpey.

With the bulk of the squad based overseas, including 13 players with English clubs, Montemurro emphasized the importance of flexibility and preparedness for the tournament’s quick turnarounds.

"We need to cover all scenarios," he said, noting the unpredictability of tournaments like the Women's World Cup and the Women's Asian Cup. "We need to be ready to change system or structure swiftly."

Australia's campaign begins on March 1 against the Philippines in Perth, with the Matildas also set to face Iran and South Korea in the group stage.

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