The Matildas have suffered their first defeat under coach Joe Montemurro, falling 1-0 to Panama in a historic match at Hands Oval in Bunbury. Sherline King's 59th-minute goal proved the difference, as Panama's physicality disrupted the Matildas' rhythm in front of a crowd of 10,727.
Montemurro fielded a largely different team from the one that drew 1-1 with Slovenia in Perth, with only Kaitlyn Torpey remaining in the starting lineup. The Matildas struggled to find fluidity in the damp conditions. Panama's goalkeeper, Yenith Bailey, was forced off the field within the first minute due to a suspected torn ACL, which initially quieted the lively atmosphere.
Australia dominated possession in the first half, holding the ball for over 60% of the time, but they were unable to convert this dominance into scoring opportunities. The home side struggled to truly test Panama's substitute goalkeeper.
Michelle Heyman had a golden opportunity to equalize late in the game after Alexia Apostolakis' shot was spilled by the goalkeeper. However, Heyman's close-range shot went over the crossbar. Despite recent promising performances against Slovenia, the Matildas were brought back to earth in their first-ever match in Western Australia's South-West. The weather mirrored the team's performance, as they struggled to break through Panama's defense.
The loss to Panama was unexpected, especially considering Australia's higher FIFA ranking (15th) compared to Panama (56th). The Matildas had previously shown promise in their friendlies against Slovenia, with a win and a draw. However, their depth was tested against Panama's physical style of play. The match was bruising, with Panama receiving five yellow cards. While Australia controlled 65% of the possession, they couldn't penetrate Panama's defense. Debutants Jacynta Galabadaarachchi and Adriana Taranto combined to create a chance, but Taranto's shot was saved.
Joe Montemurro admitted that he may have overworked the players in training leading up to the match. He made ten changes to the starting lineup from the previous game against Slovenia, partly due to players returning to their clubs or managing their playing time. The match had an eventful start when Holly McNamara's cross led to a collision between Panama's Yenith Bailey and Hilary Jaén, resulting in Bailey's injury. Panama also suffered another injury blow when key attacker Salazar had to leave the field in the second half. Australia also felt the physical toll of the match when Micah collided with Panama's Ana Ggabriela Quintero.
The Matildas were missing several key players, including Sam Kerr, Mary Fowler, Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Katrina Gorry, and Clare Wheeler. Ellie Carpenter, Mackenzie Arnold, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Sharn Freeier had also left the squad after the Slovenia series, while Amy Sayer and Charli Grant were rested. Panama took the lead in the 56th minute through Sherline King. Australia pushed for an equalizer, and Heyman's late chance went begging when she hit the crossbar from close range.
