Defending Champion China Drawn with North Korea, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan at 2026 Women's Asian Cup

The 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, hosted by Australia, will feature 12 teams competing from March 1 to 21, with China drawn in Group B alongside North Korea, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan. China, the defending champions aiming for a record-extending 10th title, will play all their group matches in Sydney, facing debutants Bangladesh first, followed by Uzbekistan and North Korea. Hosts Australia, coached by Joe Montemurro, open the tournament against the Philippines in Perth and will also face South Korea and Iran in Group A. Japan, Asia’s highest-ranked team, is placed in Group C with Taiwan, Vietnam, and India, seeking to reclaim the title last won in 2018. The tournament serves as the final qualification stage for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the top four semifinalists qualifying directly and additional playoff spots for other teams. Matches will be held across multiple venues including Stadium Australia, Perth Rectangular Stadium, and Gold Coast Stadium, with the final scheduled at the 79,500-capacity Stadium Australia on March 21.