With Joe Montemurro taking charge for the first time since being appointed head coach, Australia came out seeking a statement win.

 

Preparing for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026™ which they will be hosting, Australia got off to a dream start, with Gielnik scoring off a corner in the third minute.

Buoyed by the opener, Australia pushed hard for a second but Slovenia slowly got into their groove but neither side was able to find the back of the net in the remaining minutes of the first half.

 

Slovenia, who matched Australia's nine shots on goal in the first half, employed a high pressure approach in the second half and Zara Kramzar tested goalkeeper Teagan Micah in the 51st minute.

Australia, despite finding opportunities hard to come by, maintained their discipline and finally doubled their lead with McNamara scoring her first goal for the Matildas with a diving header off Hayley Raso's cross.

 

Raso then took over, netting their third a minute later and Australia will be confident of another win when the sides meet again on Sunday.