- Michelle Heyman’s second-half goal gave the Matildas a promising lead in Perth.
- Slovenia equalised in stoppage time through substitute Mirjam Kastelec.
- Coach Joe Montemurro highlighted tactical progress but noted late-game naivety.
The Matildas looked to be heading for a second consecutive win under new head coach Joe Montemurro before a late twist saw Slovenia snatch a 1-1 draw in Perth.
However, the result slipped away in injury time when substitute Mirjam Kastelec pounced on a rebound off the post, punishing Australia’s inability to manage the final moments.
Matildas Denied Victory by Late Slovenian Equaliser in Perth Thriller
The match marked Montemurro’s first appearance on home soil as head coach, and fans at HBF Park witnessed a more cohesive Australian side. Ball retention in the defensive third was cleaner compared to their midweek outing, and link-up play down the right flank, particularly from Carpenter and Amy Sayer, provided consistent attacking outlets.
While Australia held much of the possession and dictated tempo, their lack of precision in the final third was a recurring issue. Several promising moves fizzled out due to hurried deliveries or missed timing, preventing them from extending their lead and ultimately opening the door for Slovenia’s late push.
Slovenia, to their credit, remained disciplined and opportunistic. Though outplayed for large parts of the game, their persistence was rewarded in stoppage time. Naja Poje Mihelič’s shot hitting the woodwork set up Kastelec’s equaliser, a moment that stunned the Perth crowd and reminded the Matildas of the margins in international football.
Montemurro’s post-match comments reflected both satisfaction and caution. While pleased with his team’s rhythm and attacking structure, he pointed to the importance of game intelligence and closing out matches. With Panama up next, squad rotation is expected, but the tactical blueprint remains unchanged: patient build-up, positional discipline, and smarter late-game decisions.
The Matildas may have dropped points, but the performance signaled real progress under Montemurro—what remains is sharpening their edge in decisive moments.
“Football is a game of mistakes. Whoever makes the fewest wins.” – Johan Cruyff
