<p>The Tillies are back! This Friday Australia’s finest female footballers take on Women’s Asian Cup silver medallists, South Korea, in a thrilling preview of next year’s Women’s Asian Cup, which will take place Down Under.</p> <p>This will be the first of two international friendlies against Korea Republic and will no doubt provide a valuable hit out for both sides.</p> <p>It’s a time of transition for the Tillies at the moment, with much uncertainty hovering around the Green and Gold, mainly in the coaching department.</p> <p>Can they block out all the off-field distractions, rekindle their chemistry and see off South Korea across what are sure to be two highly competitive friendlies? Let’s find out!</p> <p>For the latest analysis, team news, odds and betting tips, check out our Matildas vs South Korea preview below.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Matildas vs South Korea Preview</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>There are a few big talking points following the Matildas into camp for this set of fixtures against South Korea.</p> <p>Firstly, they have officially slipped to 16th in the world rankings, the lowest they’ve been in almost 20 years.</p> <p>They are still searching for a permanent replacement for Tony Gustavsson, who they parted company with after the Olympics. Tom Sermanni remains in charge in an interim capacity, but recent results suggest a permanent solution is required sooner rather than later.</p> <p>Finally, there’s the Sam Kerr of it all. The living legend has finally been cleared of any wrongdoing in a case relating to the harassment of an English police officer.</p> <p>She is now allowed to return to the national team setup, although she is currently still recovering from an ACL injury and will be unable to participate in the two upcoming matches against South Korea.</p> <p>Despite all of this swirling turmoil, the squad selected to participate in these two upcoming friendlies, is one still packed with quality.</p> <p>Names like Mackenzie Arnold, Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler and Hayley Raso are all on deck for Australia, meaning there’s still plenty for the Tillies faithful to get excited for.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Matildas vs South Korea Prediction and Betting Tips</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Head-to-Head Prediction (H2H)</h3> <p>On paper Australia possess the far stronger squad and despite their slump in the world rankings, should be considered strong favourites heading into this one.</p> <p>Playing at home will also add another level of confidence for players and fans alike. Never underestimate the Aussie spirit, particularly with a Green and Gold army behind them. We’re backing the Matildas to get the job done here in fine style.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong> Australia.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>First Goal</h3> <p>Yes, without Kerr leading the line, this side still lacks some out and out fire power up front, but that’s why we are anticipating the goals to come from out wide for the Matildas.</p> <p>Tottenham superstar and certified speedster Hayley Raso is a prime candidate to cut in from the flank and find the back of the net early in this one.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong> Hayley Raso.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Correct Score</h3> <p>The Matildas defence certainly isn’t an issue right now, with the likes of Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley and Mackenzie Arnold guarding the Green and Gold net, we’re quietly confident of a clean sheet here.</p> <p>While it probably won’t rain goals at Allianz Stadium, with the likes of Mary Fowler, Caitlin Foord and the aforementioned Hayley Raso on hand, we think the Tillies will be good for more than one.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong> 2-0 Australia.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>How to Watch the Matildas vs South Korea</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Matildas’ two-match international series against Korea Republic will be available for fans to watch live on streaming service Paramount+ as well as on free-to-air thanks to Network 10.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Matildas vs South Korea Time and Date</h2> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Kick-off: </strong>8:00pm AEDT.</p> <p><strong>Date: </strong>Friday, April 4, 2025.</p> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Allianz Stadium, Sydney.</p>