Meet Tilly Linturn: Our Fearless Dreamer
In just 100 days the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ is set to kick off on 1 March 2026, and excitement is already building across the country.
In the build-up to this major milestone, young footballers from grassroots clubs were invited to share their fearless dreams. Hundreds of heartfelt submissions poured in with the most powerful 100 selected to feature on a striking giant "100” installation at the 100 Days to Go celebrations at Sydney’s Martin Place.
Among them, one dreamer shone brightest.
Eight-year-old Tilly Linturn from Unanderra Hearts Junior Soccer Club was announced as the winner of the Fearless Dreamers competition, earning two tickets to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Austraia 2026™ Final at Stadium Australia on 21 March 2026. With Asia’s top twelve sides vying for glory, this match is set to be blockbuster.
Tilly, whose full name is Matilda, quite fittingly, is a passionate fan of Australia’s national team. She’s also profoundly deaf yet plays football with courage, joy and determination. Her mother Jane entered Tilly into the competition saying:
“My deaf daughter inspires me daily - she plays soccer with fierce determination, showing that strength isn’t heard, it’s seen in every fearless kick and smile.”
And her fearless dream is
“To see women’s sport celebrated equally - where every girl grows up believing her goals, on and off the field, truly matter.”
At the celebrations in Sydney’s CBD, Tilly shared this special moment with her dad, Andrew, who is also her coach and just as football mad as she is.
She was presented with her prize by former Matilda and Chief Operating Officer of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026TM, Sarah Walsh, and was also thrilled to meet Matildas coach Joe Montemurro, who joined the festivities.
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ is on track to be the most high-profile and record-breaking edition in the tournament’s history. With tickets starting from just $20 for adults and $10 for children, fans are being urged to lock in their seats now to avoid disappointment.
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