Australia promise exciting style in pursuit of Women's Asian Cup triumph

Coach Joe Montemurro stated on Thursday that Australia intends to deliver an engaging style of football as they aim to claim the Women's Asian Cup title, having selected a powerful team featuring stars like Sam Kerr, Mary Fowler, and Steph Catley.

The Matildas have secured the trophy just once across the 20 instalments of the event, back in 2010.

They finished as runners-up in both 2014 and 2018, and now they are keen to return to the top spot as the hosts of the competition scheduled from March 1 to 21.

My approach to the game always focuses on delivering football that thrills and remains forward-thinking, Montemurro remarked, drawing from his prior roles at Arsenal, Juventus, and Lyon.

One key aspect for me is ensuring we present a style of play that offers a compelling display, so audiences will truly enjoy it.

The team is captained by Chelsea forward Kerr, who is set for her fifth Asian Cup appearance.

Seasoned players such as Catley, Ellie Carpenter, Alanna Kennedy, Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, Katrina Gorry, Mackenzie Arnold, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Emily van Egmond form the backbone of the squad.

Mary Fowler of Manchester City earns a spot in the Matildas lineup for the first time since April last year, even after limited playtime of only 15 minutes following her knee surgery.

Montemurro included eight newcomers to the Asian Cup, such as Tottenham defender Clare Hunt and Newcastle forward Kaitlyn Torpey.

Out of the 26 selected players, all except two are playing abroad, with 13 at clubs in England.

An event like this one tends to produce unexpected outcomes, as seen in various World Cups for both men and women, Montemurro noted.

Unlike a league setup where planning and rotations are feasible.

Preparation for rapid recovery between matches is crucial.

However, my main priority was ensuring coverage of every possible situation, allowing swift adjustments to formations or tactics if required.

Australia begins their campaign against the Philippines in Perth on March 1.

Their group also includes Iran and South Korea.