The wait is over for Australian football fans as the Matildas kick off their 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup campaign on home soil. With a capacity crowd expected at Optus Stadium in Perth, the hosts will be looking to make a statement in their opening Group A clash against the Philippines. Our resident football expert brings you his preview and best bet for the tournament opener below!
Matildas vs Philippines Preview & Betting Tips: AFC Women’s Asian Cup Group A
Time for the Matildas to step up
After a period of transition, the Matildas enter this tournament with one clear objective: silverware. Head Coach Joe Montemurro has implemented a controlled, possession-based philosophy, moving away from the transition-heavy style of the past. The return of Sam Kerr to competitive action in her home town is the headline story, but the form of Mary Fowler and Kyra Cooney-Cross suggests this is the most balanced Australian squad in years. Playing at home brings immense pressure, but this group has proven they thrive on the energy of a local crowd.
Where is the Philippines' improvement coming from?
The Philippines are no longer the pushovers of Asian football. Under Australian coach Mark Torcaso, the 'Filipinas' have become a tactically disciplined unit capable of frustrating higher-ranked opponents. They enter the tournament following a successful 2025 campaign and will rely on their A-League Women's contingent for familiarity with the Australian style. While they lack the top-tier depth of the hosts, their ability to defend in a compact block makes them a difficult side to break down if the Matildas fail to find an early rhythm.
Stats that matter
- The Matildas won the last meeting between these two sides 8-0 in 2023.
- Australia has not lost a home group stage match in a major tournament since 2006.
- Sam Kerr has scored 7 goals in her last 4 appearances at Optus Stadium.
Matildas to make a statement
The Matildas are primed to start this tournament strongly and should comfortably account for the Philippines. Australia is superior in every department, and the tactical shifts under Montemurro are designed specifically to dismantle defensive blocks. While the Philippines have improved, the gap in technical quality remains significant. With a 60,000-strong crowd behind them, the Matildas are expected to cover the line as they look to build momentum for the knockout stages.
Australia -3.0
$2.00 (1.5 units)
Matildas vs Philippines Match Info
Date: Sunday, 1st March
Location: Optus Stadium, Perth
Time: 8:00pm (AEDT) / 5:00pm (AWST)
Odds: Australia $1.05 vs Philippines $26.00
Line: -3.0 ($2.00)
Where to Watch
You can watch the match live and free on Channel 10 or stream it ad-free via Paramount+.
