Montemurro and Carpenter Urge Unity as Matildas Push Toward the Asian Cup
So, let me walk you through what’s been unfolding around the Matildas, because it’s been a strong and emotional moment for Australian football. Coach Joe Montemurro has delivered one of his most passionate messages yet, calling out what he describes as the sport’s long-standing “inferiority complex.” And beside him was Ellie Carpenter, who added her own grounded, player-level perspective on why this moment matters so much.
Montemurro’s comments were sparked by similar remarks from former Matildas coach Alen Stajcic, who recently criticised the constant internal fights and the habit of underselling Australian football. Stajcic described the sport as “two seagulls fighting over one chip,” which Montemurro felt captured a deeper issue perfectly. He said that Australian football often puts itself down for no real reason, as if the whole nation is somehow behind the rest of the world. But, as he pointed out, Australian coaches and players are working at elite clubs all over the globe, which means something is clearly being done right.
Also Read:What Montemurro is pushing for now is unity — not just within the Matildas, but across the league system, the federations, and everyone shaping the game’s direction. In his words, the real question should be: what is the next step forward, and how can the entire football pyramid work together to reach it? He believes the sport is at a crucial growth point, especially with signs of strength coming from youth teams, like the U20s’ recent emphatic win over South Korea.
Ellie Carpenter echoed that sense of urgency. She called the upcoming friendly against New Zealand “really important,” because it’s the final chance to play together before everyone heads back to their clubs and then reconnects only in March. She said the recent performance against New Zealand felt like the team truly clicked — one of their best in a long time — and Tuesday’s match is both a test and a chance to keep building momentum.
Carpenter also praised Coopers Stadium, saying the tight seating and close-up fans create exactly the kind of environment players love. But she also warned that New Zealand would not be satisfied with their previous showing, so a tougher match is expected. Still, she emphasised that the Matildas would focus on their own style, play with intent, and bring their identity onto the pitch.
Montemurro hinted at possible lineup changes, not due to uncertainty but because he wants to explore different tactical combinations before the Asian Cup. For him, the next few months will be about consistent communication with players, monitoring their workload, and ensuring that the national team stays stable and aligned with a clear vision.
In his view, Australia has the talent, the coaches, and the global presence — now it just needs belief and unity to match it.
Read More:
0 Comments