CommBank Matildas Head Coach Joe Montemurro said that the team’s hard-fought 2-0 victory over Kenya was exactly what they needed as they prepared for future challenges.
He said that coming up against a parochial crowd and a tough team is exactly why they participated in the FIFA Series 2026™.
“It was an exciting game,” he said.
“I want to thank the fans. There was a great atmosphere for us. It's exactly what we needed.
“It’s important, because we need to play against parochial crowds. When we go to the World Cup, we might come up against the hosts Brazil, and it could be difficult.
“It wasn't the best of games for us. We didn't control the game very well, but all congratulations to Kenya. They came out and they created probably four very good chances.”
He said that the unpredictability of Kenya was part of the reason they were excited to be involved.
“We came here because we know these nations are unpredictable,” he said.
“We don't know what to expect. Kenya put on a good show and played some good football, and sometimes exposed us.”
He finished by thanking FIFA and the Kenyan FA for what was a valuable experience both on and off the pitch.
“I got to see some players that I haven't seen much of, and we tried a few combinations, so it was a good tournament for us,” he said.
“Thank you very much to everyone at the Kenyan FA and FIFA for an amazing tournament. We got exactly what we wanted out of it, and I'm really proud to be here.”