Western United stars Adriana Taranto and Chloe Berryhill have earned landmark selections in the Matildas squad for the upcoming international window.
In new coach Joe Montemurro’s first camp in charge, the team is set to play four matches in Perth, with Taranto and Berryhill called up for the final two games against Panama.
Taranto’s call-up is an historic first in her career as she becomes the first Western United player to earn a national team selection after progressing through the club’s pathway at Calder United.
Adriana Taranto has been a linchpin in the Western United program over a number of years
Having debuted in the W-League at 16 years of age and representing Australia at youth level, Taranto won it all with Calder and has gone to another level at Western United, racking up 55 appearances in the green and black.
Berryhill remains one of the most storied Matildas for the better part of the last decade, her journey into this squad has been one of determination and excellence.
The star midfielder had a stunning return to the Matildas cruelly cut short by concussion in December but with a fully fit A-League Women season under her belt, Berryhill is now ready to take on the national team again.
Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato hailed the achievement of both players and of the club.
“This is a special day for our football club and we are thrilled for Adriana and Chloe to receive this well-earned selection,” he said.
“We have watched Adriana develop first-hand in our program over a number of years and it is an incredible feeling of pride to see her rewarded for her hard work. Her perseverance through injury and adversity has been immense and we are delighted to see her rewarded with national team selection.
“For Chloe, this is just another example of her incredible drive, resilience and determination to continue to compete at the highest level, standing up to setbacks and setting the benchmark to all aspiring Australian footballers.
“We can’t wait to see both players representing the green and gold and wish them and the team all the very best in Perth.”
It was also announced last week that Taranto had re-signed with Western United for 2025-26 season.
“I am so excited to sign at Western again for a fourth straight season. I love the Western family and being home in Tarneit in front of our fans is an amazing feeling,” she said.
“It has been a crazy year for me, but I wouldn’t change it at all. I would not have been able to achieve anything without the support of the lub, my teammates, my family and friends.”
