China and South Korea Advance at Women’s Asian Cup, Australia Awaits

Defending champions China secured their spot in the semi-finals of the Women’s Asian Cup with a 2-0 extra-time victory over Taiwan on Saturday, while South Korea dominated Uzbekistan 6-0, similarly advancing to the final four. China will face host nation Australia in the semi-finals on Tuesday.

China Overcomes Taiwan in Tense Quarter-Final

Shao Ziqin scored in the 94th minute for China, followed by an own goal from Chen Ying-hui, sealing a 2-0 win against Taiwan in Perth, Australia. This victory also guarantees China direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The quarter-final carried political undertones due to China’s claim over self-ruled Taiwan, which competes internationally as “Chinese Taipei.” This arrangement is a compromise allowing Taiwan to participate in major competitions without being recognized as a sovereign nation.

South Korea Dominates Uzbekistan

In Sydney, South Korea delivered a commanding performance, defeating Uzbekistan 6-0. Son Hwa-yeon opened the scoring in the ninth minute, followed by a goal from Ko Yoo-jin before halftime. Park Soo-jeong, Ji So-yun, Lee Eun-young, and Jang Sel-gi added goals in the second half.

Semi-Final Matchups and World Cup Qualification

South Korea will face either Japan or the Philippines in the semi-finals on Wednesday. Both Taiwan and Uzbekistan still have an opportunity to qualify for the World Cup through the playoffs, along with North Korea and the loser of the Japan-Philippines match. The winners of those playoff matches will also secure automatic qualification for the global tournament.

China Faces Challenges Ahead

China will be without star midfielder Wang Shuang for the semi-final against Australia due to a second yellow card. China’s head coach, Ante Milicic, expressed confidence in his team’s resilience and ability to overcome this loss.