The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 promises to be a landmark tournament, bringing together Asia’s finest 12 teams to compete for continental supremacy. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 will see 12 top women’s national teams from Asia competing in a group stage divided into three groups. Group A includes Australia, the Republic of Korea, Iran, and the Philippines; Group B consists of the DPR Korea, China PR, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan; Group C includes Japan, Vietnam, India, and Chinese Taipei.
The host country for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 is Australia. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 runs from 4–21 March across Perth, Sydney, and the Gold Coast, featuring group and knockout matches. The 2026 edition will elevate women’s football in Asia, showcasing skill, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of glory. In this article, we highlight that Australia will host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026.
AFC Women’s Asian Cup Teams: Full List Of Participating Teams
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup brings together top Asian teams. Here’s the full list of participating teams and key players to watch
In this table, you can see the participating teams divided into three groups, each aiming for a place in the quarter-finals and a chance to win the championship:
| Group A | Group B | Group C |
|---|---|---|
| Australia (AUS) | DPR Korea (PRK) | Japan (JPN) |
| Korea Republic (KOR) | China PR (CHN) | Vietnam (VIE) |
| Iran (IRN) | Bangladesh (BAN) | India (IND) |
| Philippines (PHI) | Uzbekistan (UZB) | Chinese Taipei (TPE) |
The group stage will determine which teams advance to the quarter-finals: the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed teams will move on. Fans can expect thrilling matches as these top Asian sides battle for continental glory and a chance to lift the coveted AFC Women’s Asian Cup trophy.
1. Australia
Australia will host the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, with the Matildas ranked 3rd in Asia and 16th in the world. Since joining the AFC in 2006, Australia have reached four finals, winning their maiden title in 2010 by defeating North Korea on penalties, with Kyah Simon scoring the decisive spot-kick.
The squad features top players competing globally in leagues such as the English WSL, French Division 1, and the NWSL, including Sam Kerr, Hayley Raso, Caitlin Foord, and Steph Catley. After record-breaking support at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, the Matildas enter 2026 as strong contenders.
AFC Cup Record: 2006 – Runners Up, 2010 – Champions, 2014 – Runners Up, 2018 – Runners Up, 2022 – Quarter Finals
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Chloe Lincoln, Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah |
| Defender | Alanna Kennedy, Charlie Rule, Clare Hunt, Courtney Nevin, Ellie Carpenter, Kaitlyn Torpey, Steph Catley, Winonah Heatley |
| Midfielder | Amy Sayer, Clare Wheeler, Emily van Egmond, Katrina Gorry, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Tameka Yallop |
| Forward | Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, Holly McNamara, Kahli Johnson, Michelle Heyman, Remy Siemsen, Sam Kerr |
| Head Coach | Joe Montemurro |
2. Korea Republic
The Republic of Korea entered the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup seeking redemption after finishing runners-up in 2022. Ranked 5th in Asia and 19th globally, the ‘Taegeuk Ladies’ are known for disciplined defending, technical skill, and rapid counter-attacks.
The squad blends experience, with stars like Ji So-Yun and Cho So-Hyun boasting over 130 international caps, with young talent such as Casey Phair, who made history as the youngest World Cup player in 2023. Having produced golden generations and achieved strong youth success, the Republic of Korea is a serious contender, motivated to capture its inaugural AFC Women’s Asian Cup title.
AFC Cup Record: 1991 – Finals, 1993 – Finals, 1995 – Fourth, 1997 – Finals, 1999 – Finals, 2001 – Fourth, 2003 – Third, 2006 – Finals, 2008 – Finals, 2010 – Finals, 2014 – Fourth, 2018 – Finals, 2022 – Runners Up
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Kim Min-Jung, Ryu Ji-Soo, Woo Seo-Bin |
| Defenders | Choo Hyo-Joo, Jang Sel-Gi, Kim Hye-Ri, Kim Jin-Hee, Kim Mi-Yeon, Kim Min-Ji, Ko Yoo-Jin, Lee Eun-Young, Lee Min-Hwa, Noh Jin-Young, Shin Na-Yeong |
| Midfielders | Ji So-Yun, Kim Shin-Ji, Lee Su-Bin, Song Jae-Eun |
| Forwards | Casey Phair, Choe Yu-Ri, Choi Yoo-Jung, Jeon Yu-Gyeong, Kang Chae-Rim, Park Soo-Jeong, Son Hwa-Yeon |
| Head Coach | Shin Sang-Woo |
3. Iran
IR Iran entered the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 for only the second time, having secured the final qualifying spot by defeating Jordan, just as they did in 2022. Under new coach Marziyeh Jafari, the squad is relatively inexperienced, with most players having fewer than 10 international appearances, making them a potential wildcard.
Despite losing a qualifier match, Iran impressed with its resilience, technical quality, and mental strength. Jafari praised her players for overcoming challenging conditions and intense pressure, highlighting their determination and motivation to perform at the highest level.
AFC Cup Record: 2022 – Group Stage
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Mina Nafeei, Raha Yazdani, Zahra Khajavi |
| Defenders | Behnaz Taherkhani, Fatemeh Adeli, Fatemeh Amineh, Fatemeh Shaban, Golnoosh Khosravi, Hadis Basatshir, Sepideh Nozhati, Zeinab Abbaspour |
| Midfielders | Fatemeh Makhdoumi, Melika Mohammadi, Samaneh Chahkandi, Shabnam Behesht, Zahra Sarbali |
| Forwards | Afsaneh Chatrenoor, Hasti Forouzandeh, Mohadeseh Zolfi, Mona Hamoudi, Negin Zandi, Zahra Ghanbari |
| Head Coach | Maryam Azmoon |
4. Philippines
The Philippines enters the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 as a strong contender, building on their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance in 2023 and their 2022 ASEAN Women’s Championship title. Ranked 7th in Asia and 41st globally, their highest-ever ranking, they qualified for Australia 2026 without conceding a goal, defeating AFC veterans Hong Kong.
They are making their 11th Asian Cup appearance after finishing in the semi-finals in 2022. Head Coach Mark Torcaso plans to combine youth and experience, using upcoming tournaments to refine the squad. The ‘Filipinas’ aim to defend regional honours while targeting a strong performance in Australia.
AFC Cup Record: 1981 – Group Stage, 1983 – Group Stage, 1993 – Group Stage, 1995 – Group, 1999 – Group Stage, 2001 – Group Stage, 2003 – Group Stage, 2018 – Sixth Place, 2022 – Semi-Finals
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Inna Palacios, Nina Meollo, Olivia McDaniel |
| Defenders | Aaliyah Schinaman, Aliana Weibel, Azumi Oka, Hali Long, Jaycee DeFazio, Lyka Escobar Cuenco, Rhea Chan |
| Midfielders | Adelaide Wyrzynski, Bella Pasion, Charisa Lemoran, Dionesa Tolentin, Isabella Alamo, Kaya Hawkinson, Malea Cesar, Quinley Quezada, Téa Pidding |
| Forwards | Alessandrea Carpio, Chandler McDaniel, Janae DeFazio, Nina Mathelus |
| Head Coach | Mark Torcaso |
5. DPR Korea
DPR Korea returns to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 as strong title contenders, making their first appearance since finishing runners-up in 2010. Ranked ninth in the world, Ri Song Ho’s squad blends experienced players with a talented new generation. Dominating Qualifiers Group H, they defeated Tajikistan and Palestine 10-0 and Malaysia 6-0, with standout performances from Kim Kyong Yong and Myong Yu Jong.
DPR Korea’s youth teams also excelled in 2024, winning the AFC U17/U20 and FIFA U17/U20 Women’s World Cups. The squad, armed with tactical discipline and technical skill, is ready to reclaim its place among Asia’s elite.
AFC Cup Record: 1989 – Group Stage, 1991 – Fourth, 1993 – Runner-Up, 1997 – Runners-Up, 1999 – Third, 2001 – Champions, 2003 – Champions, 2006 – Third, 2008 – Champions, 2010 – Runners-Up
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Kim Jong-Sun, Pak Ju-Mi, Yu Son-Gum |
| Defenders | Pak Sin-Jong, Pong Song-Ae, Ri Hye-Gyong, Ri Jong-Gum, Ri Kum-Hyang, Song Chun-Sim |
| Midfielders | Hong Song-Ok, Ju Hyo-Sim, Myong Yu-Jong, Ri Myong-Gum, Ri Su-Jong |
| Forwards | Choe Kum-Ok, Han Jin-Hong, Kim Chung-Mi, Kim Hye-Yong, Kim Kyong-Yong, Ri Hak, Sung Hyang-Sim, Wi Jong-Sim |
| Head Coach | Ri Yu-Il |
6. China PR
China PR enters the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 as one of Asia’s most respected sides, aiming to defend their 2022 title. Known as the ‘Steel Roses’ and ranked 4th in Asia (17th globally), they combine technical skill with quick attacking transitions.
Led by captain Wu Hayan and head coach Ante Milicic, China PR boasts stars such as Wang Shuang, Tang Jiali, and goalkeeper Zhu Yu, all of whom returned from overseas clubs. The Steel Roses, with a record nine AFC Women’s Asian Cup titles, including seven consecutive wins from 1986 to 1999, strive to maintain their dominance in Australia.
AFC Cup Record: 1986 – Champions, 1989 – Champions, 1991 – Champions, 1993 – Champions, 1995 – Champions, 1997 – Champions, 1999 – Champions, 2001 – Third, 2003 – Runners Up, 2006 – Champions, 2008 – Runners Up, 2010 – Fourth, 2014 – Third, 2018 – Third, 2022 – Champions
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Pan Hongyan, Zhu Mengdi, Zhu Yu |
| Defenders | Chen Qiaozhu, Dou Jiaxing, Li Jiayue, Li Mengwen, Liu Yanqiu, Wang Linlin, Wu Haiyan, Zhai Qingwei |
| Midfielders | Huo Yuexin, Liu Jing, Lu Yatong, Shen Mengyu, Wang Aifang, Wang Yanwen, Yao Wei, Zhang Linyan, Zhang Rui, Zhang Xin, Zhao Yujie |
| Forwards | Jin Kun, Shao Ziqin, Sun Fangxin, Tang Jiali, Wang Shuang, Wu Chengshu, Wurigumula |
| Head Coach | Ante Milicic |
7. Bangladesh
Bangladesh will make their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ debut in Australia, entering as the lowest-ranked side but with strong momentum from the qualifiers. Under head coach Peter Butler, who transformed the team’s mentality and playing style in 2024, Bangladesh won all three qualifying matches, scoring 16 goals and conceding just one.
Emerging talents Tohura Khatun and Ritu Chakma will lead creativity and goal-scoring, supported by Shamsunnahar Jr’s pace and width. Despite the tough challenge ahead, Butler’s side has shown resilience, confidence, and tactical discipline, aiming to compete strongly against Asia’s best teams and make a historic impression in their first continental campaign.
AFC Cup Record: 2026 – Debut
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Rupna Chakma, Sathi Biswas, Swarna Rani |
| Defenders | Anai Mogini, Masura Parvin, Nilufa Yesmin Nila, Ritu Chakma, Shamsunnahar I, Sheuli Azim, Surma Jannat |
| Midfielders | Maria Manda, Monika Chakma, Sapna Rani |
| Forwards | Afida Khandakar, Krishna Rani, Marzia Akter, Matsushima Sumaya, Sabina Khatun, Sanjida Akhter, Shaheda Ripa, Tohura Khatun |
| Head Coach | Peter Butler |
8. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan returned to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Finals for the first time since 2003, securing qualification with a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win over Nepal. Under new head coach Kotryna Kulbytė, Uzbekistan dominated the qualifiers, defeating Sri Lanka 10-0 and Laos 7-0, with goalkeeper Maftuna Jonimqulova making key saves in the decider.
Kulbytė praised her team’s preparation and composure under pressure, emphasizing that qualification is just the beginning. The squad’s celebrations highlighted their joy and unity. Returning to the continental stage after nearly two decades, Uzbekistan aims to challenge Asia’s elite with renewed confidence and ambition.
AFC Cup Record: 1995 – Group Stage, 1997 – Group Stage, 1999 – Group Stage, 2001 – Group Stage, 2003 – Group Stage
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Kumushoy Gulomova, Maftuna Jonimqulova |
| Defenders | Dilrabo Asadova, Feruza Bobokhujaeva, Ilvina Ablyakimova, Leyla Oraniyazova, Nafisa Nabiqulova, Sevinch Kuchkorova |
| Midfielders | Asalkhon Aminjonova, Gulzoda Amirova, Maftuna Shoyimova, Nazira Sayfutdinova, Nozimaxon Ergasheva, Umida Zoirova |
| Forwards | Alina Almatova, Dilnura Mamatkulova, Diyora Bakhtiyarova, Diyorakhon Khabibullaeva, Feruza Turdiboeva, Leyla Rustullaeva, Mehribon Egamberdieva, Nilufar Kudratova, Zarina Mamatkarimova |
| Head Coach | Kotryna Kulbyte |
9. Japan
Japan enters the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 as Asia’s top-ranked team (5th in the world) and a major contender. Known as the ‘Nadeshiko,’ they play technical, possession-based football, blending tactical discipline with quick passing.
Led by experienced stars Saki Kumagai, Yui Hasegawa, and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Boot winner Hinata Miyazawa, Japan boasts talent across the pitch. The first Asian team to win a senior FIFA World Cup (2011) and two-time AFC Women’s Asian Cup champions (2014, 2018), Japan combines youth and experience, with players active in top European and US clubs, making them one of the teams to beat in 2026.
AFC Cup Record: 1977 – Group Stage, 1981 – Group Stage, 1986 – Runners Up, 1989 – Third, 1991 – Runners Up, 1993 – Third, 1995 – Runners Up, 1997 – Third, 1999 – Fourth, 2001 – Runners Up, 2003 – Fourth, 2006 – Fourth, 2008 – Third, 2010 – Third, 2014 – Champions, 2018 – Champions, 2022 – Semi Finals
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Akane Okuma, Ayaka Yamashita, Chika Hirao |
| Defenders | Hana Takahashi, Hikaru Kitagawa, Miyabi Moriya, Moeka Minami, Rion Ishikawa, Toko Koga, Uno Shiragaki |
| Midfielders | Fuka Nagano, Hinata Miyazawa, Manaka Matsukubo, Momoko Tanikawa, Narumi Miura, Riko Yoshida, Saki Kumagai, Yoshino Nakashima, Yu Endo, Yui Hasegawa, Yui Narumiya |
| Forwards | Aoba Fujino, Kiko Seike, Maika Hamano, Mina Tanaka, Riko Ueki |
| Head Coach | Nils Nielsen |
10. Vietnam
Vietnam will make their 10th consecutive AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ appearance in 2026 after topping Group E in the qualifiers with a perfect nine points. Known as the ‘Golden Star Women Warriors,’ Vietnam impressed with 17 unanswered goals, combining aggressive attack with solid defense.
Coming off their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, they have steadily climbed Asia’s rankings over the last 15 years. Head coach Mai Duc Chung, regarded as the nation’s best women’s coach, aims to strengthen the squad further before the tournament. Vietnam enters Australia with confidence and the ambition to go deep into the competition.
AFC Cup Record: 1999 – Group Stage, 2001 – Group Stage, 2003 – Group Stage, 2006 – Group Stage, 2008 – Group Stage, 2010 – Group Stage, 2014 – Sixth Place, 2018 – Group Stage, 2022 – Quarter-Finals
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Khong Thi Hang, Quách Thu Em, Tran Thi Kim Thanh |
| Defenders | Chuong Thi Kieu, Hoàng Thi Loan, Lê Thi Bao Trâm, Lê Thi Diem My, Luong Thi Thu Thuong, Nguyen Thi My Anh, Tran Thi Duyên, Tran Thi Hai Linh, Tran Thi Thu, Tran Thi Thu Xuân |
| Midfielders | Cù Thi Huynh Nhu, Duong Thi Vân, Ngân Thi Van Su, Nguyen Thi Bích Thùy, Nguyen Thi Hoa, Nguyen Thi Thanh Nhã, Nguyen Thi Trúc Huong, Nguyen Thi Tuyet Dung, Nguyen Thi Tuyet Ngân, Nguyen Thi Van, Thái Thi Thao, Tran Thi Thu Thao |
| Forwards | Huynh Nhu, Ngoc Minh Chuyên, Pham Hai Yen |
| Head Coach | Mai Duc Chung |
11. India
India will make their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ debut with determination after automatic qualification, aiming to compete against Asia’s best. Previously forced to withdraw from the 2022 edition due to COVID-19, India dominated Group B in the qualifiers with a perfect 12 points, including wins over Mongolia (13-0), Timor-Leste (4-0), Iraq (5-0), and Thailand (2-1).
Head coach Crispin Chettri has planned 12 friendlies to build a competitive squad, focusing on tactical growth and resilience. With momentum and historic qualification behind them, the Blue Tigresses enter Australia 2026 ready to challenge continental powerhouses and make their mark.
AFC Cup Record: 1980 – Runners-up, 1981 – Third, 1983 – Runners-Up, 1995 – Tenth, 1997 – Fifth, 1999 – Eleventh, 2001 – Ninth, 2003 – Ninth
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, Payal Basude, Shreya Hooda |
| Defenders | Aruna Bag, Nirmala Devi, Purnima Kumari, Sanju Yadav, Sweety Devi |
| Midfielders | Babina Lisham, Grace Dangmei, Kiran Pisda, Martina Thokchom, Mousumi Murmu, Priyadharshini Selladurai, Priyangka Devi, Ratanbala Devi, Shilky Hemam |
| Forwards | Karishma Shirvoikar, Lynda Kom, Manisha Kalyan, Renu Gour, Sandhiya Ranganathan, Soumya Guguloth |
| Head Coach | Crispin Chettri |
12. Chinese Taipei
Chinese Taipei aims to return to the top in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 after a dominant qualifying campaign, including an 8-0 win over Pakistan and decisive victories against the Kyrgyz Republic and Indonesia. Historically, they were Asia’s early powerhouse, winning three consecutive titles from 1977 to 1981 and finishing as runners-up twice in 1989 and 1999.
After missing several editions, Chinese Taipei returned in 2022 and reached the quarter-finals. Led by Chan Hiu Meng and forwards such as Su Yu-hsuan, the team combines experience and attacking talent, seeking to recapture past glories and challenge Asia’s elite at Australia 2026.
AFC Cup Record: 1977 – Champions, 1980 – Champions, 1981 – Champions, 1989 – Runners-Up, 1991 – Third, 1993 – Fourth, 1995 – Third, 1997 – Fourth, 1999 – Runners-Up, 2001 – Group Stage, 2003 – Group Stage, 2006 – Group Stage, 2008 – Group Stage, 2022 – Quarter-Finals
Full Squad:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Chiu I-hsiu, Wang Ruo-ping, Wang Yu-ting |
| Defenders | Chang Chi-lan, Huang Ke-sin, Lee Wan-chen, Pan Shin-yu, Su Sin-yun, Teng Pei-lin |
| Midfielders | Chan Pi-han, Chen Jin-wen, Chen Ying-hui, Hsu Yi-yun, Lin Ya-hsuan, Liu Yu-chiao, Matsunaga Saki, Pu Hsin-hui, Tseng Yun-ching, Tseng Yun-ya |
| Forwards | Chen Yu-chin, He Jia-shiuan, Li Yi-wen, Su Yu-hsuan |
| Head Coach | Chan Hiu Ming |
Most Successful Teams In AFC Women’s Asian Cup History
In this table, we showcase the most successful teams in AFC Women’s Asian Cup history, highlighting their titles and notable achievements.
| Team | Titles Won | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| China PR | 9 | Most successful team in tournament history. |
| North Korea (DPRK) | 3 | Champions in 2001, 2003 & 2008. |
| Chinese Taipei | 3 | Early powerhouse with three straight in 1977–1981. |
| Japan | 2 | Winners in 2014 and 2018. |
| Australia | 1 | Won in 2010. |
| Thailand | 1 | Champions in 1983. |
| New Zealand | 1 | Winners of the inaugural 1975 edition. |
China PR dominates with nine championships, making them the most successful team in the tournament’s history. North Korea (DPRK) and Chinese Taipei follow with three titles each, while Japan has won twice. Australia, Thailand, and New Zealand have each claimed the trophy once.
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Conclusion – Asia’s Finest 12 Teams Compete In The AFC Women’s Asian Cup
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualification pathway features Australia as host and the top 2022 finishers automatically entering the finals. Remaining AFC nations compete in round-robin qualifiers, with group winners and top runners-up advancing.
Occasionally, wildcard or playoff matches give near-miss teams a second chance. With Asia’s best 12 teams set to battle it out, the tournament promises thrilling matches, emerging stars, and unforgettable moments, making the 2026 edition one of the most exciting in the history of women’s football on the continent.
FAQs
The tournament will run from 1–21 March 2026.
Australia will host matches across Perth, Sydney, and the Gold Coast.
A total of 12 teams from Asia will compete.
Teams include Australia, Korea Republic, Iran, Philippines, DPR Korea, China PR, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Japan, Vietnam, India, and Chinese Taipei.
China PR won the previous edition in 2022.
