In a thrilling conclusion to their two-match friendly series, the Matildas emerged victorious against South Korea, clinching a 2-0 win at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on April 7, 2025. This victory not only secured a clean sweep for the Australian side but also marked a significant moment for Mary Fowler, who dazzled the crowd with her performance.
The match kicked off at 7:30 PM AEST, with a record crowd of 28,019 fans filling the stands, eager to witness the action following Australia’s narrow 1-0 victory in the series opener just three days prior. The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd was treated to a display of skill and determination from both teams.
However, the game took a tense turn in the 33rd minute when Australian midfielders Alanna Kennedy and Tameka Yallop collided heads during a high-speed play. The incident left both players on the ground for several minutes, drawing gasps from the crowd. Kennedy emerged with a noticeable bruise under her right eye but chose to continue, earning applause for her grit and resilience.
Following the brief stoppage, the Matildas found their rhythm. In the 43rd minute, veteran midfielder Emily van Egmond delivered a perfectly timed pass that set up Fowler for the opening goal. The 22-year-old controlled the ball expertly before firing a right-footed shot into the net, marking her 16th goal for Australia. This moment of magic not only showcased Fowler's talent but also thrilled her boyfriend, rugby league superstar Nathan Cleary, who was in attendance.
As the first half drew to a close, the Matildas maintained their momentum, though clear-cut chances were scarce. Holly McNamara, who started strong, was replaced by Caitlin Foord at halftime, bringing a fresh dynamic to the attack. Foord quickly got involved, providing a clever pass to Yallop in the 57th minute, but her shot was saved by Korean goalkeeper Kim Minjung.
In the 65th minute, Fowler continued to make her mark on the game. She whipped in a cross that found Foord, who had multiple attempts at goal; however, it was Kaitlyn Torpey who ultimately capitalized on the opportunity, scoring the second goal for Australia. This goal solidified the Matildas' lead and sent the crowd into a frenzy.
Throughout the match, the Matildas displayed a mix of determination and skill, overcoming a spirited South Korean side eager to avenge their earlier defeat. Despite the challenges, including the head clash that left Kennedy with a shiner, the team rallied together, showcasing their depth and resilience.
This match may also have been significant for interim coach Tom Sermanni, as he faces uncertainty regarding his future with the team. Appointed late last year, Sermanni's replacement is expected to be announced soon. If this was indeed his final game at the helm, he leaves with a positive note, having led the Matildas to a clean sheet victory.
The Matildas’ next challenge will be against Argentina, with matches scheduled for May 30 and June 2, 2025. As they prepare for these encounters, the team will look to build on their recent successes and continue their development ahead of the Asian Cup.
In summary, Mary Fowler's standout performance, coupled with a solid team effort, propelled the Matildas to a 2-0 victory over South Korea, capping off a successful friendly series. The fans left the stadium buzzing, hopeful for what lies ahead for the team as they gear up for future competitions.
