Matildas Secure Late 3-2 Win Over Panama in Perth

Australia's Matildas narrowly avoided a second upset loss to low-ranked Panama with a stoppage-time goal from Charli Grant securing a 3-2 victory at HBF Park in Perth. Panama, ranked 56th globally, had shocked the Matildas with a 1-0 win the previous weekend and took the lead again through Ericka Arauz's 24-yard strike, before veteran Michelle Heyman scored twice to give Australia the lead. However, Panama's Lineth Cedeno leveled the match late in the 83rd minute, setting up a dramatic finish. The Matildas, missing many first-choice players due to absences and injuries, showed signs of promise under new coach Joe Montemurro, who has been rotating his lineup extensively to build depth and adapt to his possession-based style. Montemurro views the setbacks as learning opportunities, emphasizing the importance of development ahead of the 2026 Asian Cup in Perth. Despite possession dominance, costly turnovers and defensive lapses kept the match tense until Grant's late winner provided a confidence boost for the team.