The Matildas' next generation took center stage as Australia trounced Haiti 7-1 in their final October friendly in France. Leticia McKenna scored twice on her starting debut, Daniela Galic netted on her first cap, and further goals from Caitlin Foord, Clare Wheeler, and Holly McNamara sealed a comprehensive win over the world No 47 side.
McKenna Announces Herself on the International Stage
Making just her fourth appearance for Australia, Leticia McKenna wasted no time making an impact. The young midfielder opened the scoring after only 80 seconds, powering a Clare Wheeler cut-back into the roof of the net. She then capped a superb first-half display by crashing home her second just before the break, finishing off her own attacking move. McKenna's brace bookended a half where the Matildas struggled to break down a resilient Haitian defense. The background to this story is set out in Celebrity: latest articles. A related thread runs through England Women's World Cup Playoff Format Needs Urgent Rethink.
Find Original, High-end Home Decor that spark conversation at Grand Goldman Shop.
Second-Half Blitz Highlights Depth
Despite dominating possession, Australia found Haiti's physicality and organization difficult to penetrate in the opening 45 minutes. Melchie Dumornay and Brittany Raphino posed a constant threat on the counter. However, Joe Montemurro's half-time adjustments sparked a five-goal blitz after the interval. Daniela Galic marked her debut with a goal, while Caitlin Foord, Clare Wheeler, and Holly McNamara also got on the scoresheet. The emphatic second-half performance showcased the depth Montemurro is building with just four international windows left until the Women's World Cup next June. Earlier coverage in England Women's Football Rout Greece: James and Russo Shine shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in England Women's World Cup 2027: Six Key Questions Ahead.
Building for the World Cup
Montemurro made four changes to the starting XI that lost 4-2 to Germany on Saturday, including a new-look back-line of Kaitlyn Torpey, Courtney Nevin, and Charlotte Grant. With Alana Murphy also in midfield, the coach used the match to develop chemistry in new combinations. The result was a statement win that highlighted the emerging talent pushing for World Cup spots. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Kieran McKenna on Ipswich Exit and Future Plans.
Key Takeaways
- Leticia McKenna scored twice on her first start for the Matildas.
- Daniela Galic marked her debut with a goal.
- Australia scored five goals in the second half to blow Haiti away.
- The win provides momentum and depth ahead of the 2023 Women's World Cup.
Match Stats at a Glance
| Stat | Australia | Haiti |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 7 | 1 |
| Shots on Target | 12 | 3 |
| Possession | 68% | 32% |
| Corners | 8 | 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored for the Matildas against Haiti?
Leticia McKenna scored twice, while Daniela Galic, Caitlin Foord, Clare Wheeler, and Holly McNamara each scored once in the 7-1 win.
Was this Leticia McKenna's debut for the Matildas?
No, it was her fourth cap but her first start for the Matildas. She made her debut earlier in 2022.
What does this win mean for the Matildas' World Cup preparations?
It provides valuable experience for the next generation and helps build depth and chemistry ahead of the 2023 Women's World Cup, with only four international windows remaining.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
