<h2>Sam Kerr Returns to Matildas Squad After Overcoming ACL Injury – The Three Points:</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>- &nbsp; Sam Kerr set to make Matildas’ return after nearly two years out with an ACL injury,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/soccer/ladies/friendlies-ladies-international/wales-w-v-australia-w--9761261">facing Wales this weekend</a>.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Mary Fowler is progressing well in recovery from an ACL setback, targeting AFC Women's Asian Cup availability.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Goalkeeper Teagan Micah describes Kerr's comeback as a massive confidence boost for the Australian squad.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Sam Kerr's Matildas Comeback Creates Buzz</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Matildas are preparing for a significant boost with Sam Kerr's imminent return to international football. Australia's leading goal scorer hasn't featured in the green and gold since early 2023, following a devastating ACL injury suffered in January 2024.</p> <p>Kerr recently returned to action with Chelsea in the Women's Super League, demonstrating her recovery progress at club level.</p> <p>Now, the 31-year-old striker is set to earn her 129th cap for Australia in a friendly against Wales, with potential involvement against England to follow.</p> <p>Goalkeeper Teagan Micah highlighted the excitement surrounding Kerr's return, emphasising the psychological impact on the entire squad.</p> <p>"Of course it's a confidence boost for our team. She's a big figure within our team and she has been for a long, long time," Micah explained.</p> <p>The Matildas' approach to Kerr's comeback appears measured and supportive. "We don't wanna put any pressure on her or anything.</p> <p>We understand she's been out for a long time, and for us we just really want her to get back to enjoying football, and I think the goals will come with that," Micah added.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Mary Fowler's Recovery Progress Encouraging</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mary Fowler represents another positive development for Australian women's football, despite her continued absence from active duty.</p> <p>The Manchester City forward suffered her own ACL injury earlier this year, joining an unfortunate list of Australian players affected by similar setbacks.</p> <p>Currently participating in Matildas’ camp activities, Fowler's rehabilitation appears ahead of schedule. Micah provided an encouraging update on her teammate's condition, describing Fowler as looking "very fit and very good."</p> <p>While her return remains several months away, optimism surrounds her potential availability for next year's AFC Women's Asian Cup.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Building Toward AFC Women's Asian Cup</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>These upcoming friendlies against Wales and England serve as crucial preparation for Australia's major tournament objectives.</p> <p>The Matildas will conclude their 2025 international calendar with additional friendlies against New Zealand in November and December.</p> <p>The AFC Women's Asian Cup represents a significant target for Australia, particularly given their recent World Cup run on home soil. Having both Kerr and potentially Fowler available would substantially strengthen their tournament prospects.</p> <p>Kerr's return timeline aligns perfectly with Australia's preparation schedule. Her experience and goalscoring record make her invaluable for major tournament campaigns, where her leadership extends beyond purely statistical contributions.</p> <p>The gradual reintegration of key players like Kerr and Fowler demonstrates Australia's depth management ahead of crucial fixtures.</p> <p>With the Asian Cup approaching, these friendlies provide essential match fitness opportunities while managing player workloads carefully.</p> <p>Australia's coaching staff will monitor both players' progress closely, ensuring their long-term availability takes precedence over short-term selection pressures.</p> <p>The measured approach to Kerr's return suggests lessons learned from previous injury management experiences.</p> <p>These developments represent significant positives for Australian women's football, with two of the nation's most influential players progressing toward full international returns.</p>