Matildas Edge Out Panama in Thrilling Comeback at HBF Park
What a night it was at HBF Park in Perth as the CommBank Matildas wrapped up their international window in style with a nail-biting 3-2 victory over Panama. If you missed it, let me walk you through what was truly a rollercoaster of emotions.
The atmosphere was electric even before kickoff, with gates opening at 4:30pm local time and fans flooding into the stadium, eager to see the final match of the Matildas’ four-game stint in Western Australia. With a 6:00pm WST start, all eyes were on how the team would bounce back from a shock 1-0 loss to Panama just days earlier.
But it wasn’t smooth sailing. Panama stunned the crowd by taking the lead in the first half, putting the Matildas on the back foot early. Head coach Joe Montemurro, who’s been testing out new tactics and giving emerging players a shot during this series, had to rethink his strategy quickly. It was clear his team was struggling to find rhythm, especially with several star players like Sam Kerr, Mary Fowler, Steph Catley, and Caitlin Foord out of the lineup.
Also Read:- Joao Pedro Steals the Show as Chelsea Storm into Club World Cup Final
- Norman Tebbit: A Relentless Fighter and Voice of Thatcherism Dies at 94
Enter Michelle Heyman. The veteran striker showed exactly why she’s still such a crucial presence, netting two massive goals in the second half that brought the Matildas right back into the game. Heyman was on fire, both with her finishing and her movement, and her performance lifted the entire team.
And just when it seemed like a draw might be on the cards, Charli Grant stepped up in the 91st minute with a stunning stoppage-time winner. It was only her second international goal, and it couldn't have come at a better moment. The eruption from the crowd was deafening — what a way to finish the match!
Even with the win, Montemurro was honest in his post-match comments. He acknowledged the team still has work to do, particularly when it comes to managing tempo and sticking to the possession-based style he’s trying to implement. There were too many technical errors, too many moments where Panama looked dangerous on the counter. But he remained optimistic, pointing out that most of the team will be in-season by the next international window, which should make a big difference.
One of the night’s most memorable moments came after the final whistle. Fans were invited onto the pitch following the team’s autograph session — a rare and special opportunity that capped off a heartfelt and thrilling night of football.
With two more international windows ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in March 2026, the Matildas still have some growing to do. But if Tuesday night is anything to go by, there’s no shortage of heart, resilience, and rising talent in this team. The road to the Asian Cup continues — and it’s going to be one exciting journey.
Read More:
0 Comments