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Matildas coach to seek out Kerr ahead of blockbusters

Matildas coach to seek out Kerr ahead of blockbusters

Matildas interim coach Tom Sermanni has revealed he’ll look to speak with Sam Kerr as Queensland prepares to host the side for the first time since the Women’s World Cup when they take on Brazil in two friendlies in November.

The two-match series will be held firstly at Suncorp Stadium on Thursday, November 28, and then at CBus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast three days later on Sunday, December 1.

They are the first two in a busy stretch of four games in 10 days. The Tillies will then travel to Victoria for another two-game series against Chinese Taipai that starts three days after the Brazil games.

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Suncorp Stadium was the scene of the Matildas’ stunning defeat of France on penalties in the World Cup quarter-final.

The Matildas celebrating France’s final missed penalty which secured them victory in the Women’s World Cup quarter final last August. Getty

“Suncorp Stadium holds incredible memories for Australian football and to revisit a city and stadium that was central to such an historic night for Australian football will be special,” Football Australia chief executive James Johnson said.

“We acknowledge and are grateful for the support of the Queensland Government in establishing a permanent commemoration of a tournament that unified the nation in unique way.

“With several current Matildas born or raised in the region, it will be a special homecoming for them and reflects our commitment to continue showcasing the team across the country.”

Whether the Matildas have Kerr in the side remains to be seen.

The superstar didn’t play in the Olympics with the Matildas after she suffered an ACL injury in January.

Sermanni said he’s prepared to let Kerr take her time with recovery before rushing into any selection decision.

“I’ve got to speak to her this week, find out where she’s at with her injury recovery and the rehab, and then make a decision,” he said.

“The key thing for Sam is to get back healthy, and however much time that takes, she has to take that time.

“The team has come off a tournament where the results didn’t go as everybody had hoped, so it’s just bringing a bit of stability back now and getting the team to believe in themselves again.

“Really, this starting camp is the beginning of the preparation for the Asian Cup and that’s another important responsibility I have.”

Brazil will also host the next women’s World Cup from June 2027.

“Brazil is a quality side who will provide a fantastic challenge for our team as we embark on our next four-year journey with the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, Women’s World Cup and LA 2028 Olympic Games on the horizon.”

The two teams last met in 2021, when Australia recorded a 3-1 win and a 2-2 draw in Sydney. The Seleção last played in Brisbane against France during the World Cup.

The fixture announcement comes a week after Tom Sermanni was announced as the Matildas’ interim coach as Football Australia continues its search for a long-term fill for the role after Tony Gustavsson’s departure.