Three of Asia鈥檚 footballing powerhouses鈥擟hina PR, Japan, and Korea Republic鈥攈ave officially secured their places at the highly anticipated AFC Women鈥檚 Asian Cup Australia 2026鈩.
As the top three finishers in the 2022 edition, these teams have earned automatic qualification under the tournament鈥檚 current format. They join host nation Australia in what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of women鈥檚 football, featuring exceptional talent, storied rivalries, and passionate supporters that will make the tournament a landmark event for football fans.
From 1 to 21 March 2026, the competition will ignite three iconic Australian cities鈥攖he Gold Coast, Perth and Sydney鈥 with matches being played across five world-class stadium venues, cementing Australia as a premier destination for global football events.
James Johnson, 西瓜影视 CEO, reflected on the tournament鈥檚 significance: 鈥淪ecuring the AFC Women鈥檚 Asian Cup 2026鈩 further solidifies Australia鈥檚 reputation as a premier destination for global football events. Welcoming powerhouse teams like China PR, Japan, and Korea Republic is not only a testament to the strength of this competition but also an incredible opportunity to showcase Australia鈥檚 commitment to growing the women鈥檚 game,鈥 Johnson said.
鈥淔or the CommBank Matildas, it will mean challenging some of the best teams in the world on home soil, creating unmissable moments for fans and helping to inspire the next generation of players across the country,鈥 he concluded.
Sarah Walsh, Chief Operating Officer of AFC Women鈥檚 Asian Cup 2026鈩, added: 鈥淗aving China PR, Japan and Korea Republic qualify for the AFC Women鈥檚 Asian Cup 2026鈩 is a defining moment for the tournament. These teams represent the gold standard of women鈥檚 football in Asia, bringing with them a level of competition and prestige that will elevate this event to new heights,鈥 Walsh said.
鈥淔ans will have the unique opportunity to witness world-class football in their own backyard, as these teams combine skill, passion, and experience to deliver unforgettable performances. The tournament is a celebration of the growth and unity of women鈥檚 football, and we look forward to welcoming these giants of the game to Australia,鈥 concluded Walsh.
Each of these teams brings a rich legacy to the tournament. China PR, the record nine-time champions, are a symbol of dominance and grace on the field. Known as the 鈥淪teel Roses鈥, their disciplined and technically refined gameplay has inspired generations, and their dedicated supporters bring an unmatched energy to every game.
Korea Republic, with their dynamic and progressive approach, made headlines with their thrilling journey to the 2022 Final. Backed by an ever-growing and enthusiastic fanbase, they are set to be a formidable contender.
Japan鈥檚 Nadeshiko, celebrated for their strategic brilliance and artistry on the field, hold a 2014 AFC Women鈥檚 Asian Cup鈩 title and a 2011 FIFA Women鈥檚 World Cup鈩 trophy, ensuring their matches are a masterclass in football excellence.
The remaining eight slots will be confirmed after the AFC Women鈥檚 Asian Cup Australia 2026鈩 Qualifiers which are scheduled to take place from 23 June to 5 July 2025.
With the match schedule for the tournament to be finalised in early 2025, the AFC Women鈥檚 Asian Cup Australia 2026鈩 is set to be a groundbreaking celebration of Asian football, inspiring the next generation and showcasing the sport鈥檚 unifying power.
To receive information about the match schedule, ticketing information and further tournament details when unveiled, register HERE.
