Matildas squad named for Japan double-header

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Matildas Coach Tom Sermanni has named an 18 player squad for next week's international friendly against Japan in Kobe, Japan.

Matildas Coach Tom Sermanni has named an 18 player squad for next week's international friendly against Japan in Kobe, Japan.

The Matildas have had a whirlwind international schedule in the weeks following the Asian Cup in May, as highly sought-after opponents to other women's teams preparing for the Beijing Olympics.

Japan is one of three women's teams from the Asian Football Confederation to participate in the 12 team Women's Football Tournament at the Olympic Games, with the other two including Korea and hosts, China.

"Our rebuilding process continues to accelerate with this match, as we look to replace experienced players who are unavailable such as Kate McShea and Cheryl Salisbury.

"With Di Alagich also retired, we have a spot to fill on a long term basis also, and this game is another opportunity for me to look at younger players in a competitive match situation," said Sermanni.

"The positive aspect about being such popular opponents is that it gives young players a good chance to impress and to become match hardened at the international level."

The Matildas will depart Australia on Monday and meet Japan on Thursday 24 July (Kick-Off 5.00pm AEST ) at the Homes Stadium in Kobe as part of a double-header match which will also see the Qantas Under 23s take on the Japan Under 23 Men's Team at the same venue later in the day.

This match is anticipated to be the final match for some months for the Matildas who are next schedule to play again in an ASEAN Football Federation tournament in October.

MATILDAS SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Melissa Barbieri, Lydia Williams

Defenders: Brooke Spence, Ellen Beaumont, Clare Polkinghorne, Kim Carroll

Midfielders: Renee Rollason, Heather Garriock, Amy Chapman, Servet Uzunlar, Lauren Colthorpe, Danielle Small, Joanne Burgess

Forwards: Caitlin Munoz, Leena Khamis, Lisa De Vanna, Kathryn Gill, Kyah Simon

MATCH DETAILS

Japan v Australia (Women) Japan Under 23s v Australia (Men)

Thursday 24 July 2008 Homes Stadium, Kobe, Japan

Kick-off 5.00pm AEST (Women) and 8.00pm AEST (Men)