Emma Burke 
Chloe Lincoln in action for Brisbane Roar against Melbourne City during the 2025/26 A-League Women season. Photo: Wilde Imagery/Round Ball Australia
On February 21, Brisbane Roar goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln was announced as a replacement member of the Matildas’ Asian Cup Squad, with Teagan Micah withdrawing due to injury.
Seven days later, she would learn that she would be Australia’s starting keeper for the opening game of the tournament after Mackenzie Arnold was ruled out due to a calf niggle, and Jada Whyman was replaced by Morgan Aquino.
With only three appearances to her name, and all of them in friendlies, Lincoln was set to make her competitive tournament debut having only had two training sessions with the team.
“It happened so quickly, there wasn’t much time to dwell on it,” Lincoln said regarding the whole situation.
Luckily for her, during the Matildas’ 1-0 win against the Philippines, secured by a vintage Sam Kerr header, Lincoln was not required to make a single save and only recorded 13 touches across the 90 minutes.
This was due to the very low block the Philippines sat in, where they only saw 15% of possession of the ball, and did not take a single shot on goal.
All things considered, 13 touches is a rather high number for someone in Lincoln’s very unique circumstances, and in front of a record breaking crowd for a Women’s Asian Cup game.
“I’m nervous every game, probably a bit more this time,” Lincoln said.
“I just tried to make the most of it and enjoy the experience as much as I could because things like this don’t happen too often.”
Having the Matildas’ usual number one goalkeeper on side supporting her made a difference for the 21-year old.
“[Mackenzie Arnold] spoke to me before the game. She said keep it simple to start, work yourself into the game, no pressure to do anything crazy,” said Lincoln.
This experience could be vital for Lincoln, who, depending on the fitness of Arnold, may end up back between the sticks for Australia’s second group game against Iran on Thursday, something she says she’s ready for.
“I’m happy to play a role no matter what that looks like, whether that’s on the bench or playing.”
“I guess we’ll just see what happens with selection stuff… whatever happens happens.”
During the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, The Dubcast, Round Ball Australia’s Women’s Football podcast, will have daily episodes discussing the days games and looking ahead to the next days matches. Listen on Spotify, Apple, or watch on YouTube.