Matildas set for world No.1 US

Jul 27, 2017 - 1:23 AM With more than half of the Matildas squad plying their trade overseas, national team coach Alen Stajcic is confident of a strong showing in this fortnight's Tournament of Nations.

The Australian women's soccer team takes on the US, first-up on Friday (AEST), Japan and Brazil in the four-nation friendly tournament.

Not only are they all top 10-ranked sides, but Australia's most heated rivalries.

The Matildas knocked Brazil out of the last World Cup, before enduring heartbreak on penalties at their hands in last year's Olympics.

Stajcic's side share great recent history with both world No.1 USA and regional rival Japan - with both edging Australia at the same World Cup.

"They're probably our three biggest rivals in major tournaments over the last three years," he said.

"It'll make for great matches."

Australia isn't out of place among the elite company.

As world No.7, the Matildas are wedged between Japan and Brazil in the rankings.

With so many of the Matildas playing abroad, Stajcic is expecting to see elite performances.

Striker Sam Kerr leads the foreign contingent.

With 11 goals in the US-based NWSL, she trails only veteran American striker Megan Rapinoe in the race for the golden boot.

"Our players have flourished overseas. Emily Gielnik has done well and we've all heard about Sammy Kerr's exploits in America," Stajcic said.

"We've got players in Japan, we've got four or five in Norway, in Germany and more in America.

"Not only playing overseas but doing well overseas. They're not just making up the numbers in clubs.

"Tameka Butt is the leading goalscorer at her club and one of the leading goalscorers in Norway. Same with Emily Gielnik and Chloe Logarzo.

"Caitlin Foord and Katrina Gorry are both key players in their team in Japan.

"It's great. They're ticking along well and come into camp full of enthusiasm and really focused. The most focused I've ever seen our team and showing great signs of maturity."

Attackers Michelle Heyman, Larissa Crummer and Kyah Simon all miss the tournament through injury.

MATILDAS AT THE TOURNAMENT OF NATIONS

Matildas v USA - 12 noon Friday 28 July (AEST)

Century Link Field, Seattle

Matildas v Japan - 7:15am Monday 31 July (AEST)

Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego

Matildas v Brazil - 9:15am Friday 4 August (AEST)

StubHub Center, Carson

* All matches broadcast on Fox Sports

Source: AAP