The CommBank Junior Matildas kicked off their AFF U18 Women’s Championship campaign with a 4-0 win over the Philippines, the win was the team’s first international activity since their involvement in the 2019 AFC U16 Women’s Championship where they finished fourth in the tournament three years ago.
Australia goes to the top of Group B after their opening game, with Avaani Prakash scoring twice and India Beier and Maya Lobo both finding the back of the net in the second half. Head Coach Rae Dower talked after her side’s opening win in the tournament.
“I’m ecstatic to finally get this talented group onto the park after nearly 3 years in limbo. They’re such a talented group of footballers and they’ve worked so hard for this opportunity to shine on the international stage.”
I’m proud to have given 16 players their debuts tonight. To see the beaming smiles on their faces when player mentor, former Matilda Tammie Thornton and I presented them with their jerseys on the eve of the match will live long in all of our memories.”
“Tonight’s match was another step forwards in the football careers of the players. I’m very proud of the players and staff after such a dominant performance.”
“The Philippines is a physical, combative team and it was an ideal way to kick off our tournament. We matched their physicality and were strong all over the park, dusting off some nerves in their first match together.”
