CommBank Matildas defender Charlie Rule said that the upcoming two-game series against Mexico in Sydney and Newcastle were “massive” for the team as they begin to prepare for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™.
The 23-year-old was speaking in her hometown of Sydney ahead of the opening game on Saturday night in Newcastle.
“Making it to a World Cup would be amazing, but there's still a lot of work for me to do to secure a spot here,” she explained.
“I will do everything I can to get there, but these games coming up are massive for the team. It's the start of a journey, and we can't wait.”
She reflected on her season at Brighton & Hove Albion in the WSL, where she was named Young Player of the Year. The team were defeated in the final of the FA Cup by Manchester City but Rule took the positives from the experience and the season as a whole.
“I always miss home, but life's pretty good in Brighton, and I'm enjoying it over there as well,” she said.
“[The FA Cup final] was an incredible experience. Playing at Wembley, finishing the season there was such an amazing experience. It was very special, and even though the result didn't go our way, I felt like we played some really good football. Coming off that straight into camp is nice, and I’m feeling ready for this camp and finish the season on a high.
“Brighton has been great for me. I was playing in the WSL lots this season against quality sides and a lot of good players. I'm learning a lot at the moment, and I'm taking as much as I can. Being in this squad is special, and I feel like I'm ready now.”
Rule’s breakthrough season comes after spending the majority of 2024/25 out with a serious hip injury. She said the experience has taught her to ride the highs and lows of football.
“Everything's going well at the moment, but there's definitely highs and lows,” she said.
“Last season I was out for with injury for a lot, but this season went well, and I'm proud of where I've been, and where I've got to – to be invited into camp again and experience this team. The quality in this team is pushing me, and I'm getting better every camp.”
“[The AFC Asian Cup 2026™ was beautiful in so many ways - the crowds at home, and being in the team for a tournament, you get closer. I keep saying this, but I feel like I've found a place in this team, and it feels nice. It was an experience that I will treasure, and hopefully take it into more tournaments with this team.”
She said that she was expecting Mexico to be a serious test.
“I haven't played against them, but we've done some review, and they look like a really good side, so it will be a good test,” she said.
“They seem very technical, very physical. It's nice to get experience all around the world and play different teams leading into a World Cup. So, that's what we're going to do.
“Our team is incredibly physical as well, we can match anyone, and the players around me are all very talented. It’s easy to play in this team with the players and the quality around me. If needed, I'll play and do my best.”
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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