CommBank Matildas Abroad: A Week of Triumphs and Thrills

The international football scene is buzzing with activity, and the CommBank Matildas are at the heart of it all. From the UEFA Women's Champions League (UWCL) clashes to the electrifying North London Derby, Australian talent has been making waves across European leagues. The recent conclusion of the Swedish Damallsvenskan and the ongoing NWSL playoffs have shifted attention to other exciting European competitions, delivering thrilling matches and remarkable performances.

UWCL Showcases Matildas' Prowess

Several CommBank Matildas showcased their exceptional skills in some high-profile UWCL matches this week. Arsenal’s commanding 4-0 victory against Juventus was a testament to the Matildas' contribution. Caitlin Foord starred with a goal and an assist, while Kyra Cooney-Cross provided a crucial assist, further enhancing Arsenal's lead. Steph Catley's solid performance at centre-back helped secure a clean sheet, solidifying Arsenal's position as favourites to progress in the group stage. This result puts Arsenal three points ahead in second place of Group C.

Meanwhile, Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory over Hammarby, with Laura Blindkilde Brown and Aoba Fujino finding the back of the net. Alanna Kennedy and Mary Fowler both started and played the full match for City, demonstrating their consistent excellence. Although Hammarby’s valiant effort and their raucous away fans added excitement, City’s experience proved decisive.

Elsewhere, FC Twente suffered a heavy 7-0 defeat against Real Madrid, which has left them facing an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stages. Daniela Galic joined the game in the 79th minute, a substitution that couldn’t change the fate of this match. This result leaves Twente third in their group with a rematch against Real Madrid next week. Lyon, last season’s finalists, continued their impressive run, securing a comfortable 3-0 win over Roma with Melchie Dumornay scoring a brace. Ellie Carpenter played the full match at right-back for the French champions. Chelsea, despite a less convincing performance, managed to beat Celtic 2-1, overcoming an early goal from Murphy Agnew. Goals from Maika Hamano and Ashley Lawrence secured the victory for Chelsea. Sam Kerr's absence continues as she recovers from her ACL injury.

North London Derby: A Clash of Titans

The highly anticipated North London Derby between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal promises to be a captivating spectacle. Six CommBank Matildas are set to feature in this crucial early-season battle, highlighting the significant influence of Australian players in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Tottenham Hotspur, while facing the Gunners as heavy favorites, have shown moments of brilliance this season and a derby match presents the ultimate stage to pull off an upset. Hayley Raso, Clare Hunt, and Charli Grant are set to represent Tottenham Hotspur, while Caitlin Foord, Steph Catley, and Kyra Cooney-Cross will be representing Arsenal in this crucial match. The match is set for Sunday at 12:45 am AEDT.

WSL Weekend: A Rollercoaster of Matches

The WSL weekend promises a series of gripping encounters, beginning with Brighton & Hove Albion hosting West Ham on Saturday at 11:30 pm AEDT. Brighton, after a recent defeat against Arsenal, will look to bounce back against West Ham, who are high in spirits following their first three points of the season. Katrina Gorry is set to play midfield for West Ham, while Charlie Rule could make her first appearance for Brighton. The unpredictability of this fixture makes it an exciting watch.

Another title race-deciding match sees Chelsea host Manchester City on Sunday at 4:30 am AEDT. Both teams are undefeated, with City currently leading the table. A win for either side would significantly impact the league standings, making this clash a pivotal moment in the season. Mary Fowler and Alanna Kennedy will be available for City, while Sam Kerr's continued absence leaves Chelsea with a challenge to overcome.

The Merseyside Derby between Everton and Liverpool on Monday at 2 am AEDT adds another layer of excitement to the weekend’s fixtures. Everton, currently at the bottom of the table, will be looking to inspire their first win, with Clare Wheeler aiming to lead from midfield. Teagan Micah will start in goal for Liverpool, who are hoping to maintain their solid mid-table position. In the final game of the round, Leicester City will face off against Manchester United on Monday at 2 am AEDT. Courtney Nevin is set to feature for Leicester, eager to contribute in what promises to be a crucial game.

Beyond the WSL: Matildas' European Adventures Continue

The action doesn't stop with the WSL. Lyon, with Ellie Carpenter set to feature, face Saint-Étienne on Sunday at 7 am AEDT. Elsewhere, Sarah Hunter will represent Paris FC as they play Strasbourg. Winonah Heatley leads FC Nordsjælland against Brøndby IF, and Jamilla Rankin will aim to showcase her talent for Hoffenheim against Frankfurt.

The upcoming November/December international window will see a 36-player CommBank Matildas squad take on Brazil and Chinese Taipei. Interim Head Coach Tom Sermanni described the extended squad as a valuable opportunity to assess a wide range of players. The squad includes five players receiving their first senior national team call-up, highlighting the depth of talent within Australian women's football. The extended squad size reflects the challenges posed by the scheduling of several European competitions during the window.

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ will be hosted across various Australian cities and is set to run from March 1 to 21, 2026. This exciting tournament will showcase the best of Asian women’s football. Fans across the globe can watch the WSL matches live and for free on Optus Sport. The coming weeks promise exhilarating matches and a chance to witness some impressive Australian talent in action across various leagues and tournaments.