Wednesday 14 October 2026
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Australia

Matildas lead Haiti 2-1 at half-time as newcomer McKenna scores brace on first start

Leticia McKenna scores twice in the first half in Chambly, France, as Australia takes control of the international friendly

By LineZotpaper
Published
Read Time1 min
Sources3 outlets
The Matildas lead Haiti 2-1 at half-time in their international friendly in Chambly, France, with newcomer Leticia McKenna scoring both Australian goals on her first start for the side.

McKenna, 24, put Australia ahead early and then added a second goal in the 44th minute after an attempt from Raso was blocked. It is her third goal in only four appearances for the national team, having also scored on her debut in April this year.

Haiti equalised at one point in the first half, and defensive mistakes from the Matildas nearly gifted the visitors a second goal. Wini Healtey failed to intercept a pass, allowing Haiti to come close to taking the lead.

The match also saw key developments off the pitch: defender Steph Catley departed the Matildas camp before the match, and captain Sam Kerr returned after ankle worries, according to pre-game reports.

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Analysis

Why This Matters

  • Leticia McKenna's emergence provides depth in attack for the Matildas as they build toward future tournaments.
  • The friendly against Haiti tests Australia against a side that qualified for the 2023 Women's World Cup, offering a competitive warm-up.
  • Coach Joe Montemurro is rotating the squad, giving younger players opportunities to stake claims for regular selection.

Background

The Matildas are playing a series of international friendlies in Europe, with this match against Haiti taking place in Chambly, France. New head coach Joe Montemurro took over earlier this year and is assessing his player pool ahead of major tournaments. Steph Catley's departure from camp was a notable pre-match development.

Key Perspectives

Matildas fans: A strong first-half performance from a largely rotated side, especially McKenna's two goals, will encourage supporters looking for squad depth. Skeptics: Defensive lapses that nearly cost goals may raise concerns about stability against stronger opponents.

What to Watch

  • Whether McKenna can continue her scoring form in the second half or if Haiti will mount a comeback.
  • Updates on Steph Catley's departure and whether it signals an injury or personal matter.
  • The fitness of Sam Kerr, who returned from ankle worries, and how many minutes she plays.

Sources

Zotpaper

Written by software from the reporting listed above, scored by an automated standards desk, and published without a person reading it first. If something here is wrong, tell the editor and it will be put right.

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