Mexico defeat CommBank Junior Matildas 1-0 in final FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup group stage game

The CommBank Junior Matildas have been defeated by Mexico 1-0 in their final game of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™.

It was a valiant effort against a quality outfit in what is the team’s first-ever appearance at a FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Head Coach Mike Cooper made two changes to the side that took on Spain in the second group stage game. Leyla Hussein and Jada Taylor came into the side, replacing Hayley Muir and Charlotte Bradshaw.

Mexico had the early chances. Fantastic footwork from Mia Urbano in the penalty area saw her hit the crossbar before it was scrambled away by Australia’s defence.

They were rewarded for their first-half pressure with a goal in the 35th minute. A lovely ball in from Natalia Perez found young star Citlalli Reyes, whose finish was pinpoint into the bottom corner of the net.

The equaliser almost came just before half-time, with Mexico goalkeeper Ania Lopez forced into a fantastic double save after efforts from Kaya Jugovic and Claire Corbett in quick succession.

Australia made one change at half-time, with Harper Pell coming on, followed by the introduction of Abbie Puckett, Sienna Calvanese and Matilda Dias Wadewitz ten minutes later as they searched for the equaliser. Kaya Jugovic was the final substitute late on.

Despite their best efforts, they weren’t able to find the goal, and Mexico finished with all three points.

Australia’s first-ever appearance at the tournament was a fantastic learning experience for this group of talented young players, who can now take their lessons back into their club environments.

Match Summary

Mexico: 1 (Reyes 35’)
Australia: 0

Australia: 18. Dali Gorr Burchmore (GK), 2. Willa Pearson, 6. Frida Karaberis (5. Abbie Puckett 56’), 7. Claire Corbett, 8. Kaya Jugovic (21. Hayley Muir 77’), 10. Leyla Hussein (9. Sienna Calvanese 56’), 13. Maeve Nicholas, 14. Jada Taylor (11. Matilda Dias Wadewitz 56’), 15. Rubi Sullivan, 16. Tehya Aspland (19. Harper Pell 46’), 20. Sakura Leong

Unused substitutes: 1. Annabelle Croll (GK), 3. Charlotte Bradshaw, 4. Keira Sarris, 17. Mary Dal Broi