Australia 1-0 Philippines, AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026: Sam Kerr’s Sole Strike Helps Matildas Clinch Victory- In Pics

Host nation Australia secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Philippines in their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 opener in front of 44,379 fans in Perth. The decisive moment came early in the 14th minute when the Aussie talisman Sam Kerr, returning from a long injury layoff, headed home from close range. Despite the Matildas' overwhelming 88% possession, the Filipinas put up a heroic defensive effort led by goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel, who made several crucial saves. A second Australian goal by Hayley Raso was ruled out by VAR, leaving the Matildas with a narrow but vital opening victory. See the best photos from the match.

Updated on: 3 March 2026 2:08 pm

Australia vs Philippines AFC Asia Cup Women's Soccer

Australia's Mary Fowler kicks the ball clear of Philippines' Jaclyn Sawicki, left, during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

1/9

Philippines vs Australia AFC Asia Cup Womens Soccer

Philippines' Jaclyn Sawicki attempts to control the ball during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

2/9

AFC Asia Cup Womens Soccer: Australia vs Philippines

Australia's Alanna Kennedy, left, and Philippines' Sara Eggesvik compete for the ball during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

3/9

AFC Asia Cup Womens Soccer: Philippines vs Australia

Australia's Caitlin Foord and Philippines' Jael Guy battle for the ball during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

4/9

Womens Asia Cup soccer match: Australia vs Philippines

Australia's Amy Sayer, right, competes for the ball with Philippines' Hali Long and Angela Beard, left, during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

5/9

Womens Asia Cup soccer match: Philippines vs Australia

Australia's Mary Fowler and Philippines' Angela Bear, right, battle for the ball during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

6/9

Australia's Caitlin Foord, right, and Philippines' Jael Guy compete for the ball during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

7/9

8/9

Australia's Ellie Carpenter and Philippines' Jaclyn Sawicki compete for the ball during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day

9/9

Australia's Mary Fowler, right, battles for the ball with Philippines' Katrina Guillou during the Women's Asia Cup soccer match between Australia and the Philippines in Perth, Australia. | Photo: AP/Gary Day