Matildas Opportunity ‘Signifies Everything’ for A-League Star Living a ‘Pinch-Me’ Dream

Natasha Prior has been living her football dream ever since she joined the CommBank Matildas squad, and next month marks the latest chapter in her incredible journey.

Selected in interim head coach Tom Sermanni’s 23-player squad for two friendlies against Korea Republic in April, the Newcastle Jets centre-back is gearing up for the thrilling opportunity to represent the Matildas at McDonald Jones Stadium for the very first time.

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Making her international debut in late 2024 at the age of 26, Prior’s career has been overshadowed by several serious concussions that nearly forced her into retirement six years ago.

Now, she stands as a six-cap Matilda, eager to don the green and gold in front of her home crowd.

“It would mean everything,” Prior shared.

“Women’s football has a huge following worldwide, and I believe it holds a special place in the hearts of the Novocastrians. We enjoy fantastic turnouts at our games, so I hope they’ll come out in force. It’s bound to be an electrifying atmosphere.”

“Playing at McDonald Jones Stadium is always something special, regardless of the jersey I’m wearing. I can’t wait to experience it as a Matilda. Let’s hope the sun shines and we can get as many supporters as possible at the match. I’m genuinely excited for this opportunity.”

“Anytime the fans rally together, it creates an incredible vibe. It doesn’t matter what jersey it is; it’s a privilege to play football here in Newcastle.”

At 27, Prior is keen to use the upcoming friendlies against Korea Republic to further establish her place in the squad – all while still having those “pinch-me” moments as she mingles with players she once idolised, who are now her teammates.

“I was with my parents this past weekend, and my mum said: ‘Go out, play strong, and hold onto your spot,’” Prior recounted. “These two games are another opportunity for me to prove myself.”

“I don’t think I’ve fully grasped it yet. During team talks, I still find myself glancing around and thinking, ‘wow, I’m surrounded by players I’ve looked up to for so long.’”

“This is my third camp, and I feel a bit more settled, but I’m still in that kind of ‘pinch-me’ state, for sure.”

Prior’s rise as a defensive figure for the Matildas has come under interim head coach Sermanni, whose decision to include her in the international setup and give her regular playing time could be regarded as one of his key contributions during his tenure.

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The Jets centre-back is the daughter of former Premier League defender Spencer Prior, who served as an assistant coach for the Matildas under Sermanni from 2011 to 2013.

Upon announcing his 23-player squad for the Korea Republic series, Sermanni stated that Prior’s “outstanding” performances for Newcastle Jets made her selection an obvious choice.

“First and foremost, she is a far more accomplished player than her father, despite his experience in the Premier League,” Sermanni said with a grin.

“Tash has done precisely what I want players in the A-League Women to achieve. She’s stood out and earned her spot in the team. Players who excel earn their selection.”

“What Tash has achieved is remarkable – she’s had an exceptional season, stood out as a centre-back, made her debut against Brazil, which is no easy feat, and has carried herself exceptionally well to remain in the squad. She’s aiming for a spot in the starting lineup now.”

Matildas match schedule – Korea Republic friendly series

CommBank Matildas vs Korea Republic
Date: Friday, 4 April 2025
Kick-off: 8:00 pm AEDT
Venue: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Broadcast: Network 10, 10 Play and Paramount+

CommBank Matildas vs Korea Republic
Date: Monday, 7 April 2025
Kick-off: 7:30 pm AEST
Venue: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
Broadcast: Paramount+ exclusive