A-Leagues stars bolster Matildas squad in 2025 homecoming friendly series

Five Ninja A-League stars have been selected in interim CommBank Matildas head coach Tom Sermanni’s 23-player squad for a two-game international friendly series against Korea Republic in early April.

The Matildas return to Australia for the first time in 2025 to face their AFC rivals in a pair of friendlies; the opening clash between the two nations will take place at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Friday, April 4 before a trip north to Newcastle and No.2 Sportsground on Monday, April 7.

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Sermanni has called five Ninja A-League players into the squad set to take on South Korea, with Canberra United legend Michelle Heyman, Western United goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln, Brisbane Roar star Tameka Yallop, Newcastle Jets centre-back Tash Prior and Melbourne City winger Holly McNamara all set to take part in the Matildas’ first home tour of 2025.

All five players featured at the prestigious SheBelieves Cup in the United States, where Australia finished fourth in February.

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The Matildas – who haven’t played at Allianz Stadium since hosting the very first sporting event at the Sydney venue against Canada in 2022.

“This squad selection is about achieving the right balance – reintegrating players returning from injury and rewarding those who have been playing consistently well in clubland. It’s important to create continuity while also bringing in players who have earned their place through strong performances,” Sermanni said.

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“We are fortunate to have a core group of players competing at the highest levels, whether it’s in the UEFA Women’s Champions League or major domestic competitions.

“Their ongoing exposure to high-pressure environments is invaluable as we prepare for the challenges ahead, knowing we still have plenty of details to work on heading into next year Asian Cup.

“Every match leading into the Asian Cup is an opportunity to fine-tune our approach, build cohesion, and ensure we are performing at the level required to take on Asia’s best during next year’s tournament.”

Match Details

CommBank Matildas v Korea Republic
Date: Friday, 4 April 2025
Kick-off: 8.00pm AEDT
Venue: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
TV Broadcast: Network 10, 10 Play and Paramount+

CommBank Matildas v Korea Republic
Date: Monday, 7 April 2025
Kick-off: 7:30pm AEST
Venue: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
TV Broadcast: Paramount+ exclusive

Full Matildas squad – Korea Republic friendly series