Matildas secure 3-0 win over Slovenia in unconvincing display

The Australian women’s national team secured a 3-0 victory over Slovenia at HBF Park, Perth — though new coach Joe Montemurro still has much work ahead.

Emily Gielnik put the Matildas ahead in the third minute, before Holly McNamara scored her first international goal in the 86th minute. Hayley Raso sealed the win a minute later with a brilliant strike from outside the box.

Despite the convincing scoreline, the world’s 15th-ranked team’s performance left much to be desired in front of 8,678 spectators. Montemurro’s possession-based strategy resulted in numerous errors — particularly in defense when building from the back.

The Matildas played without several key players:

• Sam Kerr, Mary Fowler, and Tameka Yallop were injured
• Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Katrina Gorry, and Cortnee Vine on personal leave
• Clare Wheeler left the squad for personal reasons

“This is my first international goal and it feels very special,” said McNamara, who has undergone three knee surgeries in her career.

The Matildas will face Slovenia again in a second match, before playing two games against Panama next month.