Kuala Lumpur — Asia’s biggest women’s football tournament is ready to return as the AFC Women’s Asian Cup kicks off on March 1, 2026, in Australia.
The 21st edition of the continental showpiece will run until March 21 and will be staged in Perth, Gold Coast and Sydney. Several venues previously used during the FIFA Women’s World Cup will once again host world-class action.
Host nation Australia women’s national soccer team begin their Group A campaign against the Philippines women’s national football team at Perth Stadium. Australia will aim to lift the trophy on home soil, while the Philippines hope to continue their impressive rise in Asian football.
Also in Group A, South Korea women’s national football team meet Iran women’s national football team as both sides look to make a strong start.
Group B features defending champions China women’s national football team, who face tournament debutants Bangladesh women’s national football team. On the same day, former champions North Korea women’s national football team take on Uzbekistan women’s national football team as they return to the continental stage.
In Group C, Japan women’s national football team open their campaign against Chinese Taipei women’s national football team. Later, Vietnam women’s national football team face India women’s national football team in another crucial encounter.
The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed sides, will move on to the knockout stage.
Beyond the fight for the Asian crown, the tournament will also determine Asia’s qualification spots for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The four semi-finalists will qualify directly, while additional playoff matches will decide further representatives.
With strong competition, passionate fans and high stakes, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 is set to deliver three weeks of memorable football.