Overview
- Alanna Kennedy and Hayley Raso scored in Adelaide to complete a two-match sweep of New Zealand after a 5-0 win in Gosford.
- Sam Kerr started as captain in her first Matildas appearance on home soil since her January 2024 ACL injury and played the first half.
- Kerr was involved in the buildup to Kennedy’s opener, offering a sharp reminder of her impact ahead of March’s Asian Cup.
- Coach Joe Montemurro said he used the friendly for further experimentation as Australia finalises scenarios and selections.
- The crowd of about 15,097 saw New Zealand hand goalkeeper Alina Santos her debut and mark veteran Annalie Longo’s final squad involvement.