Australia’s Matildas captain Sam Kerr wore a knee brace during the final training session ahead of the Asian Cup final against Japan at Accor Stadium in Sydney. Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm AEDT on Saturday, with live coverage on Channel 10 and Paramount+.

Kerr’s Fitness Allays Fears

Matildas coach Joe Montemurro dismissed any worries about Kerr’s condition. The star striker trained fully without the brace during the open media portion before receiving strapping afterward. Kerr has overcome significant setbacks, including over a year sidelined by an ACL rupture and a calf strain that affected her 2023 World Cup performance. She skipped Friday’s pre-match press conference, with Ellie Carpenter stepping in.

Montemurro emphasized, “Sam’s fine. Everything’s fine and we are all ready to go.” He added, “I’m so happy for her and proud of her because she has really shown why she’s such a world-class player at this tournament.”

Defender Hunt Misses Training

Defender Clare Hunt did not appear during the 15 minutes of training open to media. She had limped off after substitution in the second half of the semi-final victory over China, but the team offered no explanation for her absence.

Matildas Eye Historic Triumph

Vice-captain Ellie Carpenter urged the team to match Japan’s intensity. This final represents the best chance for silverware since the 2023 World Cup semi-finals for the golden generation, including Kerr, Steph Catley, Emily van Egmond, and Caitlin Foord. Only Kerr has previously won the Asian Cup, as a teenager in the 2010 victory over North Korea.

Carpenter reflected, “When can I say that I’ll have another final in Australia to win a major tournament? Never, probably. So this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us and most of the girls… I’ve been in this team for 10 years and haven’t lifted a trophy.”

Japan’s Dominant Form

World No. 8 Japan has impressed with 28 goals scored and just one conceded, including a 4-1 semi-final win over South Korea. Despite Australia ranking 15th, Carpenter remains confident: “They are a world-class side, but I think we can match them. We are ready to get the job done.”