Overview
- Football Australia confirmed Teagan Micah’s concussion withdrawal, leaving Mackenzie Arnold as the presumptive starter in goal and triggering a late call‑up for Chloe Lincoln.
- The 12-team tournament places Australia in Group A with South Korea, Iran and the Philippines, with quarterfinals on March 12–14, semifinals on March 16–17 and the final on March 20 in Sydney.
- World Cup qualification is on the line as the four semifinalists secure direct places for Brazil 2027, with additional playoffs deciding two more Asian berths.
- The Philippines arrive in transition under Australian coach Mark Torcaso, with Sarina Bolden’s ACL comeback status uncertain, Quinley Quezada out due to pregnancy and a younger attacking cohort stepping up.
- Perth is set for strong fan engagement after hundreds attended open training, with the city hosting the opener and multiple knockout ties as the Matildas lean into home expectations.