Historic Asia Cup Women’s Football Begins

The 2026 AFC Women’s Asia Cup has officially kicked off in Australia, heralding a historic moment for women’s football in Asia. While the tournament was first held in 1975, it has never garnered such widespread attention—particularly for Bangladesh, who are participating for the first time. Their debut marks a landmark achievement in the nation’s football history.

Although Bangladesh is a newcomer, the remaining 11 nations bring extensive experience. The favourites include China, North Korea, Japan, South Korea, and host nation Australia. China, the reigning champions, have participated 15 times and claimed nine titles, while North Korea have won three of their nine appearances, Japan twice, and Australia, Thailand, and New Zealand once each.

Australia is hosting the tournament for the second time, having previously staged it in 2006. This year, organisers have elevated the event to a World Cup-style spectacle, with grand ceremonies, music performances, and cultural displays designed to make the tournament truly memorable. Teams were greeted at Australian airports with an extraordinary welcome featuring song and dance, leaving players visibly moved and inspired.

Matches will take place across three cities: Gold Coast, Sydney, and Perth. The opening ceremony in Perth today will feature hundreds of artists and renowned musicians performing alongside a themed production. The tournament trophy was already unveiled in front of Sydney’s iconic Opera House, further adding to the excitement.

The competition features 12 teams divided into three groups. The first match today at 3 p.m. in Perth sees Australia face the Philippines. Bangladesh will play its inaugural match tomorrow in Sydney against China, the current champions. On 6 March, Bangladesh faces North Korea in Sydney before travelling to Perth for their final Group B fixture.

Bangladesh have spent the past nine days training intensively in Sydney, including a practice match. Players such as Afida Khandakar, Shiuli Azim, Tahura, Monika, Maria, and Samsun Nahar have relished the opportunity to play on world-class pitches at Jubilee Stadium. The team expressed amazement at the stadium’s quality, noting that such facilities are rare in Bangladesh and could significantly enhance performance.

Despite facing formidable opponents, Bangladesh aim to make an impact. While China and North Korea are clear powerhouses, Uzbekistan presents a relatively less challenging opponent, and a win against them would represent a historic achievement. For Bangladesh, participation itself is a milestone, and any positive performance will be celebrated as progress.

AFC Women’s Asia Cup 2026: Key Facts

With Bangladesh making their tournament debut, the 2026 Women’s Asia Cup is not only a showcase of Asia’s top women’s football talent but also a platform for emerging teams to gain international experience and challenge for a place at next year’s Women’s World Cup in Brazil.