AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026: China and South Korea Advance to Semifinals with Dominant Wins
Synopsis
In an exciting day of matches, both China and South Korea secured their spots in the semifinals of the AFC Women's Asian Cup, with China overcoming Chinese Taipei and South Korea thrashing Uzbekistan. This victory also grants them direct entry into the 2027 World Cup. Read on for the details of these thrilling matches.
Key Takeaways
China defeated Chinese Taipei 2-0 after extra time.
South Korea dominated Uzbekistan with a 6-0 victory.
Both teams qualified directly for the 2027 World Cup .
China will face Australia in the semifinals.
South Korea awaits the winner between Japan and the Philippines.
Perth/Sydney, March 14 (NationPress) Both China and South Korea have clinched their places in the semifinals of the AFC Women's Asian Cup, simultaneously securing direct qualifications for the 2027 World Cup following their wins against their opponents on Saturday.
China progressed to the semifinals with a 2-0 victory over Chinese Taipei after extra time in the quarterfinal clash.
The Chinese team quickly established dominance, maintaining possession for significant portions of the match. Wang Shuang believed she had scored the opening goal in the 39th minute, but it was disallowed upon VAR review, according to reports from Xinhua. China continued to dominate the second half but failed to break the deadlock during regulation time.
The breakthrough finally came in the 94th minute when Shao Ziqin netted a goal from the center of the box after receiving a pass from Wang. In the 112th minute, Shao won a penalty, but Wurigumula's attempt was saved. China confirmed their win with two minutes remaining in extra time when Jin Kun charged down the right flank, resulting in an own goal by Chen Ying-hui.
This victory keeps China on track for a record-extending 10th continental title, although they will be without Wang for the next match due to her second consecutive yellow card.
Next, China will face host nation Australia in the semifinals on Tuesday and has secured their qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, as the four semifinalists gain direct entry. Meanwhile, Chinese Taipei will compete against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on Thursday for one of the remaining two World Cup slots.
South Korea also advanced to the semifinals after an emphatic 6-0 win against Uzbekistan in Sydney.
Finishing as runners-up in the 2022 Asian Cup, South Korea dominated with 26 shots compared to just one from Uzbekistan. Son Hwa-yeon opened the scoring in the 9th minute, followed by a long-range strike from Ko Yoo-jin in the 20th minute. Goals from Park Soo-jeong, Ji So-yun, and substitute Lee Eun-young in the second half rounded off the scoring, with Jang Sel-gi converting a late penalty.
South Korea will face the winner of the quarterfinal match between Japan and the Philippines.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the remarkable achievements of both China and South Korea in the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Their victories not only showcase their footballing prowess but also reflect the growing competitiveness in women's football. The qualifications for the 2027 World Cup add a significant milestone to their achievements.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Which teams advanced to the semifinals of the AFC Women's Asian Cup?
China and South Korea advanced to the semifinals after their respective victories over Chinese Taipei and Uzbekistan.
What is the significance of these wins for China and South Korea?
Both teams have secured direct qualification for the 2027 World Cup due to their semifinal placements.
When will the semifinals take place?
The semifinals are scheduled for Tuesday, with China facing Australia.
What was the final score of the match between South Korea and Uzbekistan?
South Korea won decisively with a score of 6-0 against Uzbekistan.
Who will South Korea play next?
South Korea will compete against the winner of the quarterfinal match between Japan and the Philippines.
