CommBank Matildas Head Coach Joe Montemurro said the upcoming June FIFA International Window against Mexico provides the perfect preparation for next year's FIFA Women's World Cup.
He was speaking after the 24-player squad was announced for the window ahead of the two-match series against Mexico.
"It's obviously an exciting window coming up against quality opposition, and you know it's great to always get everyone back, and playing for the Matildas. Couple of, we're basically in World Cup preparation mode, so it's a really important start for us going forward," he explained.
"We're looking to stabilise and continue the work that we're doing, being ready against different types of opposition, starting to look at a couple of other players that we think could go that next level, and giving them that international experience."
One player that comes into the camp for the first time is goalkeeper Ilona Melegh, who receives her first senior call-up following a strong display for the CommBank Young Matildas during the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ in April.
"We've monitored her progress through her club, but more importantly, I had a good look at the U20 Asian Cup; she really suited the style we want to play, and we just felt that now's an opportunity to see where she's at and give her that experience with the squad."
Montemurro provided an update on goalkeeper Teagan Micah, who has been sidelined since February with symptoms of concussion that saw her miss out on the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ on home soil.
"She's progressing, we all know her history with concussion hasn't been great. We're just taking the time that's needed, and until all the medical advice directs us in the right way, then obviously, Teagan will be considered again."
With just over a year until next year's FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™, the team's preparations continue for the tournament in Brazil. As one of eight teams already qualified for the 32-team tournament, Australia will host Mexico, which will be a great test for the side, as the El Tri Femenil begin their qualifying tournament in November.
“The preparation started a while back, and we’ve been very strategic with the teams we want to play to make sure we understand the different styles we could face at the World Cup. We’ve really only got five camps left after this one, so it’s important everyone’s on the same page moving forward.”
“Consistency is really important. We look at what the national team needs and where opportunities are available. If you’ve got six forwards playing at the top level overseas every week, competition for those spots is obviously difficult. But we know where we need to build depth, and the message is simple: keep performing and those opportunities will come.”
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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