Overview
- Steph Catley and Hayley Raso did not take part in the Matildas’ final open training session, leaving their quarter-final availability unclear as concussion protocols continue.
- DPR Korea arrive as a physical, little-scouted opponent ranked ninth, with their coach pledging to accept officials’ decisions after a prior VAR protest against China.
- Friday’s Perth quarter-final sends the winner straight to the semifinals and a 2027 World Cup berth, while quarter-final losers move into play-in matches for two more direct spots.
- China’s meeting with Chinese Taipei draws scrutiny because Taiwan competes under the name “Chinese Taipei” as part of a political compromise that enables participation.
- India exited bottom of Group C after three defeats, including a 3-1 loss to Chinese Taipei, though Manisha Kalyan’s long-range free-kick was widely praised.