Emily Gielnik, an experienced striker for the Matildas, has expressed her optimism regarding the recent appointment of Joe Montemurro as the national team’s head coach. Gielnik thinks Montemurro has the potential to be the “missing piece” for the Matildas’ golden generation. Under his guidance, they might even clinch that long sought after silverware at the 2026 Asian Cup. Our team is ever so slightly more positive, and we’re still riding the euphoria from the announcement. Gielnik’s optimism extends with the team’s preparation for a lengthy run of international friendly matches.
Earlier this month, Montemurro did take the reins of the Matildas, a sign of hopeful leadership change. His new era gets underway with a couple of very friendly matches against Slovenia and Panama. The team have the Asian Cup to come, to be held on home turf in March. The next Thursday the Matildas will play Slovenia in Perth. They’ll meet again in a rematch on June 29th. They will then take on Panama in Bunbury on July 5 and a second time in Perth on July 8.
A Fresh Start for the Matildas
Gielnik expressed her enthusiasm for Montemurro’s coaching approach and the new ideas that he’s introduced to the squad. After tracking his career from afar, she’s looking forward to soaking in his expertise and strategy. She noted that Montemurro’s arrival signals a new beginning for the Matildas, providing an opportunity to reset and focus on their goals.
“It’s also a fresh start. It’s a clean slate. I’m going to be in the present and just put my best foot forward and I’m excited to start this new chapter with Joe.” – Emily Gielnik
The striker’s optimism is infectious among her teammates, who sense an exciting vibe in the camp. That spirit overload will be critical as they head into battle for their charter mission. They will be looking to claim their first silverware since lifting the 2010 Asian Cup. Gielnik emphasized the need for Montemurro to marry his concept with the makeup of the team. If he does, they will have a good shot at a deep run in the Asian Cup.
Chasing Silverware
Thirsty for success and hungry to prove they belong with the best of the best in women’s football, this Matildas squad is impressive. Gielnik believes that with Montemurro’s guidance, they could not only dominate the Asian Cup but build momentum leading into future tournaments, including the next World Cup.
“If he can piece that puzzle together, I think we can dominate the Asian Cup, and we have a good chance moving forward into the next World Cup.” – Emily Gielnik
As they prepare for the upcoming friendlies, Gielnik and her teammates are focused on implementing Montemurro’s strategies and fostering team cohesion. Pairing their seasoned experience with new energy and ideas will be a critical factor for success as they look to finally build their dream projects.
Looking Ahead
As the Asian Cup draws closer, excitement continues to grow at what the Matildas could accomplish with Montemurro at the helm. The next three friendlies will be a good period to judge how far they’ve come and to continue hammering home their tactics.
Gielnik and her teammates know they will face an incredibly tough opponent. They weave their hopes for future success, and a new sense of hope and determination, into their portable flags. The Matildas would be just as keen to prove that, one last time, they are prepared to be competitive with the best of the best.
