Cooney-Cross selected in Matildas squad for SheBelieves Cup

TORQUAY’S Kyra Cooney-Cross has been selected in the CommBank Matildas squad for the nation’s historic debut at the 2025 SheBelieves Cup.

Cooney-Cross is part of the 23-player lineup who will represent Australia at the prestigious four-nation tournament in the United States later this month.

The 22-year-old has become a fixture in the Matildas since making her debut in 2021.

She was a key cog in the starting lineup at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and also competed for Australia at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The Arsenal midfielder scored her debut goal for Australia during her 50th international game against Germany last year.

Interim Matildas head coach Tom Sermanni said the SheBelieves Cup will allow Australia to challenge itself against some of the best global sides.

“We’ve selected a squad with the clear objective of winning this tournament.

“While some challenges came with players returning from European winter breaks and the restart of the USA and Scandinavian leagues, these realities also created opportunities.

“It’s important to carry on exposing emerging players to high-level, tournament-style football early.”

Sermanni said the tournament would be an essential step towards establishing a strong foundation for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2026.

“With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup on the horizon, internal competition within the squad is key.

“Every player knows they need to push for their place, and this tournament gives us another chance to see how they respond in a high-pressure environment.

“SheBelieves will provide valuable insights as we fine-tune our preparations moving forward.”

A host of Matildas regulars join Cooney-Cross in the squad, including Katrina Gorry (West Ham United), Mary Fowler (Manchester City), Clare Wheeler (Everton and Kaitlyn Torpey (San Deigo Wave).

Australia’s first match is on February 20 against Japan.

They will then face world number one side the United States on February 23, before rounding out the tournament against Columbia on February 26.

Fans can watch live on Paramount+.

23-PLAYER MATILDAS SQUAD FOR THE SHEBELIEVES CUP:
Goalkeepers: Mackenzie Arnold, Chloe Lincoln, Teagan Micah
Defenders: Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, Charlotte Grant, Winonah Heatley, Clare Hunt, Alanna Kennedy, Natasha Prior
Midfielders: Kyra Cooney-Cross, Daniela Galic, Katrina Gorry, Emily van Egmond, Clare Wheeler, Tameka Yallop
Forwards: Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Laini Freier, Michelle Heyman, Holly McNamara, Hayley Raso, Kaitlyn Torpey