CommBank Junior Matildas Head Coach Michael Cooper has named the 23-player squad set to compete in the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™, running May 1-17, 2026 in Suzhou.
Cooper has selected a well-balanced squad, enabling the team to play its style of football and provide a variety of options across the games. Many of the selected players have gained valuable experience with the CommBank Junior Matildas and their clubs over the past twelve months, which will be key to the tournament and demonstrates exciting prospects for the future of Australian football.
Australia has been placed in Group B, alongside Japan (Pot 1), India (Pot 3) and Lebanon (Pot 4).
The AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™ also serves as the qualification pathway for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026™, with the top four teams earning a place at the global event. Australia will be pushing to claim one of those coveted qualification spots and, in doing so, secure the CommBank Junior Matildas’ first-ever appearance.
CommBank Junior Matildas Head Coach Michael Cooper said the squad are excited to embrace the challenge of the upcoming tournament.
“This group represents a strong blend of players who have consistently demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a real appetite to learn. The squad reflects the growth we’ve seen over time, not only in individual performances, but in how these players have embraced the demands of international football and responded to challenges together,” Cooper said.
“There’s a clear sense of purpose within the team heading into this tournament. The opportunity to compete at an AFC Asian Cup, alongside some of the strongest nations in the region, is significant and the squad are eager to prove themselves. The players understand what’s at stake and are committed to preparing thoroughly, competing with intent, and giving themselves every chance to be part of something special.
“Beyond the tournament itself, this experience is a valuable part of the players’ journey. Competing in an environment like this helps accelerate their development and prepares them for the demands of international football as they progress through the pathway toward senior representation.”
