Sam Kerr was just a teenager when she lifted the Women's Asian Cup trophy in 2010. Now, 16 years later, the Matildas captain is back and hungry for another major title.
Australia kicks off their Asian Cup campaign against the Philippines in Perth on March 1. And this time, Kerr says everything feels different.
"Sixteen years ago seems crazy. It feels like yesterday," Kerr told ABC Perth. "I thought I would win many more. I think it shows how hard it is to win the Asian Cup and the importance of the tournament."
The wait has been long. Australia reached the final twice since 2010, losing both times to Japan. They've competed in three Olympics and four Women's World Cups. But that elusive major trophy has stayed just out of reach for a side that once ranked fourth in the world.
Kerr's Comeback from Injury Hell
The past two years have been brutal for Kerr. A knee injury followed by an ACL tear kept her off the pitch for 637 days. That's nearly two full years watching from the sidelines.
But the Chelsea star made her return last September. She scored just 13 minutes after coming off the bench, showing she's still got it.
"I'm playing more minutes now. I feel like I'm hitting my stride," the 32-year-old said. "Every week, honestly, I feel better."
Kerr's form will be crucial for punters looking at Australia's Asian Cup odds. A fully fit Kerr makes the Matildas genuine favorites, especially playing at home. Her 13 goals for Chelsea this season prove she's back to her dangerous best.
Home Advantage and New Direction
Australia will face the Philippines at Perth Stadium, where they demolished the same opponents 8-0 back in 2023. The sold-out crowd that day created an electric atmosphere that Kerr remembers vividly.
"We played really well last time at Perth. It was in front of a sold-out stadium, so there was a real buzz around it," Kerr said.
The home support could be a game-changer. Kerr noted that 16 years ago, barely anyone was watching. Now, women's football in Australia is massive.
"To be a part of the change of women's football in the last four to five years has been incredible," she said. "I think this moment in time will be looked back on forever as the time that women's football changed in Australia and around the world."
New coach Joe Montemurro has brought fresh ideas. The former Arsenal, Juventus, and Lyon boss has won five of his first eight games in charge. His clear tactical vision has given the squad confidence heading into the tournament.
"He wants to play a certain style of football, which has been really clear," Kerr explained. "It's nice to have an Aussie in there. I think it just hits home when you've got an Aussie coach coaching you."
With Kerr firing again and a sold-out home crowd behind them, Australia's 16-year wait for Asian Cup glory could finally end in March.
