Why Arsenal’s Kyra Cooney-Cross is the key to ‘unlocking’ Matildas attack | OneFootball

Arsenal midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross is struggling for minutes in the WSL but her Australia teammates still think that she is the key to unlocking international success.

This season hasn’t been the easiest for Kyra Cooney-Cross and Arsenal.

The young midfielder has played in almost every game for the Gunners, but she has predominantly been used off the bench.

Despite playing less than last season for a struggling Arsenal side, Cooney-Cross still remains an essential cog in the Australia machine.

Speaking ahead of Australia’s final games of the year, Matildas striker Ashleigh Sykes and Cooney-Cross’ teammate described her as the ‘key’ to the team’s attack.

“I know Kyra Cooney-Cross isn’t getting heaps of game time at Arsenal – thankfully, last two games, I think she got 90 minutes there. So maybe the tide is turning a little bit,” Sykes said. “I feel like she’s the key to unlock this Aussie attack.

“Her creative ability to play through balls to the front three and find little angles in between the defensive lines.”

For the Matildas Cooney-Cross has always been consistent. The youngster was nominated for this year’s Marta award for a stunning lob she scored while on international duty.

The 23-year-old played from start to finish in back to back important games for Arsenal before the international break.

Cooney-Cross played well against Tottenham in the league before a good Champions League game against Real Madrid where Arsenal finally got back to winning ways.

The midfielder is almost certain to start this weekend for the Matildas as they face New Zealand in an important double header to end the year.

Australia’s ‘dynamic’ midfield

Skyes continued to praise Cooney-Cross and also credited fellow WSL star Mary Fowler, who misses out on the final break this year.

“Against Wales, she [Cooney-cross] was making inside out runs a lot, which were effective in helping to create Caitlin Foord’s goal in the second half and another chance as well, for Amy Sayer.

“I feel like her creativeness adds a lot to this midfield.” She continued. “Mary Fowler can probably play that similar role, but, is she going to be fully fit? How fit is she going to be for the Asian Cup is still up in the air, but that midfield three, I think can be so dynamic.”

Mary Fowler is expected to return from an ACL injury early next year as the Matildas prepare for their Asian Cup in summer 2026.