Match Report
The CommBank Matildas have won the FIFA Series 2026™ after defeating the home side Kenya 2-0 in Nairobi on Wednesday (Thursday morning AEST).
Sam Kerr and Clare Wheeler were on the scoresheet either side of half-time in a tough battle to end the FIFA window.
Head Coach Joe Montemurro made three changes to the side that defeated Malawi earlier in the week. Jamilla Rankin, Alanna Kennedy and Amy Sayer came into the side, replacing Emily van Egmond, Alex Chidiac and Courtney Nevin.
Kennedy’s start was her 150th appearance for the national team. She became the fifth player to reach this milestone for Australia and wore the captain’s armband to mark the occasion.
The game started off on even footing. Tereza Engesha looked the most threatening for Kenya, finding space in behind in the 20th minute, only for Mackenzie Arnold to be able to make the save.
Sam Kerr opened the scoring for Australia. After being denied by a fantastic one-on-one save, the ball fell to her at the back post from the resulting corner. Her shot slid underneath the goalkeeper and into the back of the net. It was her 75th international goal.
Kenya kept pushing before half time. Shirleen Opisa forced a wonderful save from Arnold, tipping it over the crossbar, before Fasila Adhiambo hit the post with one of the final touches of the half.
Emily van Egmond replaced Hayley Raso at half-time.
Australia had a fantastic opportunity not long after the break. Caitlin Foord and Sam Kerr combined twice, with Foord lifting a shot over the crossbar on the second occasion at the back post.
