– AAP
Emily van Egmond says the Matildas have a secret weapon to help them overcome Mexico in their upcoming friendlies, but their trump card won’t even take the field.
It is the Matildas’ first match on home soil since their heartbreaking 1-0 defeat in the Women’s Asian Cup final against Japan in March.
And it looms as another important test for the Matildas as they shift their focus towards next year’s Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Coach Joe Montemurro believes playing Mexico is crucial to preparing for a deep run in the World Cup, saying the Matildas have to play a range of sides from different confederations to be ready for varied playing styles.
But the Matildas will have the benefit of inside knowledge from fellow Australian representative Emily Gielnik to help them overcome Mexico, who are on a 15-game unbeaten streak.
Gielnik plays in the Mexican first division, where most of their national team players compete, and although she was left out of the June friendlies, van Egmond said she has been helpful for the Matildas.
“Obviously we know Em really well here, and she’s been a big part of this team, whether she’s been in or out,” van Egmond said ahead of the first of two friendlies against Mexico.
“But she seems to be really enjoying herself, and she’s only spoken really positively about it.
“It’s going to be physical and a good game for us. It just poses a different challenge for the World Cup.”
Saturday’s clash is special for van Egmond, who returns to her home town.
Adelaide United goalkeeper Ilona Melegh has made her first camp, but Katrina Gorry, midfielder Tameka Yallop, attacker Michelle Heyman and defenders Clare Hunt and Charli Grant haven’t been called up.
Montemurro remained tight-lipped on Friday about his final team, but said the Australians will have to bring their best to overcome Mexico, despite the respective rankings.
Australia, currently ranked number 15, sit 13 places above Mexico on the world standings, and Montemurro didn’t hold back in gushing over the Central Americans.
“They’re definitely a top 20 team,” he said.
“The league is growing, and there’s a lot of investment, so they’re a top, top team. Their ranking doesn’t mimic where I believe they should be.
“They’re a tidy team technically, and even structurally they’re very good, so, collectively, what they’ve done in Mexico is something to be really applauded.”
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