Head Coach Joe Montemurro said that the upcoming two-game series against Mexico is part of a strategic buildup ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ in Brazil.
Montemurro was talking alongside Emily van Egmond in Newcastle at the pre-match press conference before the opening match at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday evening.
“It was very important that we found all different types of styles that we would possibly come up against in a World Cup scenario,” he said.
“They’re a talented team that has done very well, both in the rankings, but more importantly, in their nation. Their league is growing, and there's a lot of investment, so they're a top team. Their ranking doesn't mimic where they are - they're definitely a top 20 team, Mexico.
“Their style is one we really need to play against - a Latin American sort of team that is very good in possession, but also very good from a physical perspective.
“For us, it is a strategic buildup into the World Cup, and all our windows now are strategic in regard to the styles of teams. It’s very important for us to continue to play our way, but more importantly to adapt to different things.”
He said that the team has prepared internally by adding layers to their own game and improving themselves.
“We’ve taken a lot of things from the Asian Cup that we believe are going to be really important,” he said.
“We, as a group, understand who we are and where we want to be, and the importance of these internationals. It’s big games for us, because they are part of the build-up, but also important for our ranking to make sure we continue to grow in that area.
“Just leading in, we've added little layers along the way. Obviously, we get the players with minimal time to work, so it's about adding important layers.”
In terms of the squad that will line up tomorrow, Montemurro said that it was still being decided.
“I'm hard-headed, and I like to stick to a way of doing things – but we have to try little details that could help us, in personnel, in understanding connections and collaborations on the pitch, and so on,” he said.
“So there will be some tinkering, some things that we'll look at in detail, and, obviously, look at the areas where we can improve.”
Emily van Egmond said that it was good to be back in Newcastle for the game. The Matildas record appearance holder grew up in ‘Newy’ and the area has a rich history of growing both Matildas and Socceroos.
“I love coming back to Newcastle. To be able to come home for a night is nice,” she said.
“I’m obviously biased, but Newcastle will always show up.”
This is her first game in Newcastle since breaking the all-time appearance record during the Asian Cup.
“I grew up as a little girl really in love with the game, and from a young age that was pretty clear it was what I wanted to do,” she explained.
“I feel very special and humble at the same time to be able to sit here and look back and see what I've been able to accomplish. The Matildas have been a big part of my journey, so every single time you get the opportunity to put that journey on, it's special.”
Van Egmond finished by expressing how special it is to share milestones with players like Ellie Carpenter (99 appearances) and Caitlin Foord (148 appearances).
“It is special. We all grew up together from a young age, playing from U-17s to now, and you look back at the journey, you have some of your best mates with you along the way. It’s a really good achievement for every single person.”
COMMBANK MATILDAS | JUNE 2026 | MATCH SCHEDULE
CommBank Matildas v Mexico
Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026
Kick-off: 7.15pm AEST
Venue: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
TV Broadcast: Network 10, Paramount+
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CommBank Matildas v Mexico
Date: Tuesday, 9 June 2026
Kick-off: 7.00pm AEST
Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
TV Broadcast: Paramount+ exclusive
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