CommBank Matildas Head Coach Joe Montemurro and midfielder Emily van Egmond speak to the media ahead of Australia’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 clash with Iran on the Gold Coast.
Australia opened the tournament with a 1-0 win over the Philippines and now look to continue their momentum in Group A as the Matildas aim to secure maximum points and progress through the tournament.
Montemurro discusses potential squad rotation, breaking down defensive teams and managing the short turnaround between matches, while van Egmond reflects on the evolution of the women’s game and the experience of playing a major tournament on home soil.
Australia face Iran at Gold Coast Stadium in their second group stage match of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026.
00:00 Montemurro & van Egmond general thoughts
01:00 Montemurro on Matildas squad rotation
02:09 Balancing continuity and fresh players
04:27 How to break down defensive teams
06:46 Van Egmond on the growth of the Asian Cup
07:43 Van Egmond on potential Matildas caps record
08:26 “You can start!” press conference moment 😄
08:42 Matildas focus on Iran challenge
09:30 Montemurro on Mary Fowler’s role
10:17 Gold Coast home crowd atmosphere
11:39 Montemurro on hosting teams in Australia
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