Raso ruled out as Matildas aim to exorcise Korean demons in Asian Cup

Catley believes the 2026 model of the Matildas is stronger, deeper and more grounded from previous setbacks and ready to take the next step.

“The level is very, very high and every player who steps on the pitch is ready to play at international level. That’s something we’ve probably overlooked in the past,” he said.

“I think it’s probably the best team I’ve ever seen right now.

Case in point: In years past, losing star winger Hayley Raso to injury could have been a blow they might have had a hard time overcoming.

Raso will not play against South Korea after entering the tournament’s mandatory seven-day concussion protocol. Coach Joe Montemurro said he suffered a “mild concussion” after landing two consecutive clean kicks to the face during Australia’s 4-0 win over Iran on Thursday.

Montemurro would, of course, prefer him to be available, but he has options.

Mary Fowler’s return from an anterior cruciate ligament rupture saw her form a mouth-watering front line in the Matildas’ final match, with her and Caitlin Foord either flanking Kerr. The critical moment has come in the Asian Cup; every match after that shapes the path forward, and from now on it’s sudden death; so he will likely begin the process of naming his preferred XI and allow Fowler, Foord and Kerr to continue to understand each other.

“It’s an exciting trio,” he said.

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“Now it’s about them playing together. The important thing is that they find little combinations with the full-backs advancing and the midfielders advancing in those areas. The more they play together, the more they combine, the more they link up, I think we will see a world-class top three.”

Montemurro also hinted at the possible involvement of both Kyra Cooney-Cross and goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold; Both were ruled out of Australia’s first two matches due to match fitness and injury respectively.

The Matildas are in second place in Group A with a point difference with South Korea, and are one point behind with a goal difference. This means they need to win on Sunday to go top of the group; This will come with the added benefit of not having to travel again: the second-place team will have one less day to prepare for their quarter-final in Perth.

A draw or defeat will not be the end of the world or end their Asian Cup hopes, but it will certainly damage internal and external faith in this team that has improved beautifully as the tournament progresses.

“What an amazing opportunity to be the head coach of this great team and be involved in situations like this,” Montemurro said.

“I love match day. The best day for me is match day. I laugh the most. I think it is the most exciting day and I try to enjoy the game as much as possible.”

“For some reason I don’t feel a lot of pressure in these games. I just feel like I’m focused on making sure I’m there to help the players when it comes… I’m going to cherish this moment in the role I’m in and love every minute of it.”