Overview

• The Matildas overturned an early Panama lead at HBF Park as Michelle Heyman struck twice and Charli Grant bundled in a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory.
• The result capped Australia’s June–July Western Australia friendlies under new coach Joe Montemurro and ended his first international window on a positive note.
• Montemurro’s possession-based approach showed promise during the comeback but was undermined by technical errors as the squad adjusted to his style.
• Eight changes to the starting lineup—including multiple debutants and the absence of veterans such as Sam Kerr and Steph Catley—underscored a fact-finding mission ahead of next year’s home tournament.
• Australia will regroup in October and November to refine their tactical system and finalise player selections for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup on home soil.