Matildas prepare to face New Zealand with one eye on 2026 Asian Cup
Caitlin Foord wants the Matildas to make the most of their time together ahead of the Asian Cup. (Getty Images/Corbis: Steve Christo)
In short:
The Matildas only have two matches to play before next year's Asian Cup.
They face New Zealand in two friendlies in Gosford and Adelaide.
What's next?
The Asian Cup will be hosted by Australia, beginning on March 1.
Caitlin Foord says the Matildas are mindful they cannot waste any time in the build-up to next year's Asian Cup.
The Matildas are in camp for their final two matches before the Asian Cup kicks off in Australia on March 1.
They play New Zealand in Gosford on Friday night, before the two teams meet again in Adelaide on Tuesday.
The Matildas have produced mixed results since Joe Montemurro took over as coach in June.
They host New Zealand off the back of a frustrating 3-0 defeat to European champions England in October, which proved a reality check.
"We need to get the most out of these games [against New Zealand]," Foord said.
"We have to tighten up what didn't really go well last camp and really make the most of these two games, because it is the final prep that we have.
"Once we get into camp before the Asian Cup it's going to come really fast."
Sam Kerr is set to play for the Matildas against New Zealand. (Getty Images: Andy Cheung)
Sam Kerr is set to play on home soil for the first time in two years after initial doubts over her fitness.
Kerr was rested for two consecutive matches by Chelsea as part of her rehabilitation following the knee injury she suffered at the beginning of 2024.
"She's [Kerr] here, and she's been part of training, so she looks fine to me," Foord said.
AAP