Just one day after breaking the Australian transfer record with her move to National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) powerhouse San Diego Wave, Kaitlyn Torpey has been named in the Matildas squad for February’s Olympic Qualifiers.
The Matildas will be looking to secure qualification to the Paris 2024 Olympics when they take on Uzbekistan in a home and away series.
Following her selection, Torpey opened up on what it means to be selected to represent the Matildas for the first time.
“It’s a dream come true, more than anything in the world, I’m honestly speechless about it because I still haven’t really processed it,” she said. “I’m so privileged but I have worked so hard for this and I’m so ready for it.”
“I had a group hug with my parents [when I found out], and we all started crying, it was an amazing moment that I will forever remember.”
The 24-year-old praised the impact that Melbourne City has had on her, as she looks forward to pushing for Olympic squad selection if Australia are to qualify.
“I would never be where I am now without Melbourne City, the people at this Club are very special, but I think the biggest thing that I’ve learned from this Club is how much of an investment the people at the Club have put into me, they’ve spent hours and hours personally with me and that’s why I’ve learned so much – I wouldn’t be here where I am today without them,” Torpey reflected.
“I’m so excited to get to camp, it’s a new level for me and I’m excited to open my eyes to what it can be.
“I want to obviously push myself for the Olympic squad, and whether that will come or not, I’m just so privileged for my name to be in the mix for it all.”
Reward for an excellent A-League Women’s season to date, Torpey is named in the squad alongside former Melbourne City captain, Steph Catley, who will captain the squad in the absence of Sam Kerr.
Joining Torpey and Catley, are former City championship winning stars Ellie Carpenter, Alanna Kennedy, Aivi Luik and Emily van Egmond.
Australia’s home fixture will be hosted at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium on Wednesday 28 February.
Match Details
Uzbekistan v Australia
Date: Saturday, 24 February 2024
Kick-off:2pm (local) / 8pm AEDT
Venue: Bunyodkor Stadium, Tashkent
Broadcast: Paramount ANZ
Australia v Uzbekistan
Date: Wednesday, 28 February 2024
Kick-off: 8pm AEDT
Venue: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne, Victoria
Broadcast: Paramount ANZ
