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Matildas starlet Mary Fowler will face Friday the No. 1 world of the United States, AEDT (USA), but three experienced players were injured.
Vice-Captain Steph Catley, defenseman Laura Alleway and forward Chloe Logarzo will not line up for the Colorado Matildas, the most important pre-game match for Australia before the June World Cup. Coach Ante Milicic said that he "would not risk" the trio, which caused minor injuries to the camp and that did not recover.
"We have a duty of vigilance towards them, especially if we are so close to a World Cup, but it's an opportunity for (other) players … to show themselves against the best team in the world, "said Milicic.
Fowler, 16, is the player on which most eyes will be trained.
The dynamic striker has moved away from the national team after three promising successes in 2018 under Alen Stajcic, but is back in the fold and seeks to become the youngest Australian participant – man or woman – at a World Cup.
"This is an extremely explosive athlete, she is very mature for her age, she is very good for the goal, her left foot and right foot are very good and she is a true finisher," said Milicic.
"(Fowler) was very well integrated into the group, happy with the way she was part of the team and her leadership.
"She will have play time tomorrow and it's important because what she's shown at the training is very positive."
Alleway's injury opens the door for Elizabeth Ralston to make her debut at Matildas, while Logarzo will be disappointed to miss another opportunity to impress after an injury that earned the Sydney FC champion the title of last month.
"They are very good, they are the favorites (of the World Cup) for a reason, they are the world champions," said Milicic.
"We know it will be a tough match, not only in terms of quality and tactics, but also physically.
"These are the games you want to lead in the World Cup.
"By the time we hope we play again in the US next time, more in-depth in the tournament, we'll be in a very good position."
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