Australia's path to title success hit a snag on Sunday when they could only muster a 3-3 draw with South Korea, relegating the tournament hosts to second spot in Group A due to an inferior goal difference.
Not only did it mean a long trip back to Perth instead of staying in Sydney for the rest of the tournament, but the Matildas must now also contend with world No.9 North Korea instead of world No.49 Uzbekistan.
North Korea haven't featured at the Asian Cup since 2010 and their forays on to the international stage are limited, meaning they are a dark horse for this tournament.
The talented squad posted a 3-0 win over Uzbekistan and a 5-0 win over Bangladesh, before falling to defending champions China 2-1.
North Korea's physicality has been a key takeaway this tournament, and it's a challenge the Matildas will relish.
"They're quite strong physically, and that's part of their game," Matildas defender Clare Hunt said on Wednesday.
"And I would say that most Australians, and anyone who watches the Matildas, know that we are also fantastic physically.
"So I think for us it's strength versus strength ... and just focusing on where we can exploit some of their weaknesses."
The last time the Matildas faced North Korea was in the 2010 Asian Cup final, which Australia won on penalties.
Sam Kerr was just 16 years old and scored in that match.
Ahead of Friday's blockbuster re-match, the Matildas are sweating on the fitness of star winger Hayley Raso and defender Steph Catley.
Raso suffered a concussion in the 4-0 win over Iran last Thursday, and Catley was concussed in the draw with South Korea.
Under AFC tournament rules, there is no minimum time required on the sidelines for players with concussion, meaning they can return as soon as they are medically deemed fit.
Catley only landed in Perth on Tuesday - a day after her teammates - so is highly unlikely to feature against North Korea.
There is more hope for Raso, who flew with the squad on Monday and will attempt to prove her fitness over the next 48 hours.
"It would be wonderful," Hunt said of the chance to get Raso back.
"She's such a dynamic player up front, very quick, and suits the profile of what we want to be in terms of a fast, attacking, dominating team."
Defender Courtney Nevin had a tough time after replacing Catley against South Korea.
Her unlucky handball gave away a penalty early in the second half, and she was unable to block her opponent from scoring South Korea's third goal.
"Nevs has bounced back incredibly well," Hunt said.
"She's an incredible athlete and person, and I think ultimately football is unforgiving, and ultimately everyone has tough moments on the field.
"She has the support of her team and the staff."
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