Melbourne City star Holly McNamara has been named in the Matildas’ 26-player squad for the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, to be held on home soil.
The tournament also serves as Australia’s qualification pathway to the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in Brazil next year, with Head Coach Joe Montemurro selecting a balanced squad blending experienced leaders and emerging talent.
McNamara’s selection comes on the back of a sensational Ninja A-League Women season, with the City striker leading the Golden Boot race after registering 12 goals and four assists in just 15 appearances to date.
Her attacking prowess, speed in the front third and clinical finishing have been central to City’s attacking success throughout the campaign.
Australia will open the tournament against the Philippines in Perth on Sunday 1 March, before travelling to the Gold Coast and Sydney for their remaining group stage fixtures.
Alongside McNamara, Montemurro has selected a number of former City stars, including Steph Catley, Ellie Carpenter, Emily van Egmond, Kaitlyn Torpey and more.
McNamara will be in action for City this Friday 20 February, when Melbourne City travel to face Central Coast Mariners at Gosford, before departing to join the Matildas in camp.
GROUP FIXTURES
Matildas v Philippines
Sunday 1 March 2026, 5:00pm AWST/8:00pm AEDT
Perth Stadium, Perth
Network 10, 10 Play and Paramount+
IR Iran v Matildas
Thursday 5 March 2026, 7:00pm AEST/8:00pm AEDT
Gold Coast Stadium, Gold Coast
Network 10, 10 Play and Paramount+
Matildas v Korea Republic
Sunday, 8 March 2026, 8:00pm AEDT
Stadium Australia, Sydney
Network 10, 10 Play and Paramount+
