Benzema joins Al Hilal

Tue, 03 Feb, 2026

Benzema joins Al Hilal

Riyadh: Striker Karim Benzema has signed for Al Hilal SFC, the Saudi Pro League leaders announced on Monday.

The former France forward - in leaving Al Ittihad Club - has signed an 18-month contract.

Europe Wrap: Yuto, Hong on the mark

Mon, 02 Feb, 2026

Europe Wrap: Yuto, Hong on the mark

Kuala Lumpur: Japan midfielder Yuto Tsunashima and former Korea Republic international Hong Hyeon-seok both had a memorable week in the Belgian Pro League - Yuto netting his first goal for Antwerp in 17 appearances and Hong doing the same in his third outing with Gent.

Other continental stars also played their part in key overseas leagues, so follow the-AFC.com as we look at what Asia’s finest have been up to in Europe.

Karachik’s Uzbekistan journey defined by challenges

Mon, 02 Feb, 2026

Karachik’s Uzbekistan journey defined by challenges

Kuala Lumpur: Football will always have a variety of meaning for Lyudmila Karachik, the icon of women’s football in Uzbekistan with her journey in the sport bookmarked at various stages by the challenges faced.

At an early age, football became a form of escape for Karachik that eventually turned into something more as she led Uzbekistan to a return to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ after a 23-year absence.

From her beginnings to helping Uzbekistan overcome their heartbreak, the 30-year-old sat down with the-AFC.com to share her experience.

Yallop: Time for Australia to win AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ again

Fri, 23 Jan, 2026

Yallop: Time for Australia to win AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ again

Sydney: Sixteen years after helping Australia to Continental glory, Tameka Yallop believes the moment has come for the Matildas to reign supreme again.

The 2010 triumph remains the only time that Australia have lifted the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ trophy and a career highlight for Yallop, who made her international debut in 2007 as the 148th Matilda and has since amassed 134 caps and 14 goals.

A wide smile spreads across Yallop’s face as she recalls a recent gathering between some members from that winning side, who recounted their experiences for a documentary that was released by Football Australia last May.

#WAC2026: The Dream XI revealed

Fri, 30 Jan, 2026

#WAC2026: The Dream XI revealed

Kuala Lumpur: After thousands of votes, the verdict is in. The ultimate #WAC2026 Dream XI is revealed. 

Twelve teams will head to Australia in less than a month in pursuit of ultimate continental glory at the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™. 

To build momentum ahead of kick-off, the #WAC2026 Dream XI Campaign invited fans across Asia and beyond to look back, debate, and celebrate the players who have defined and continue to shape women's football on the continent.

From all-time greats who laid the foundations to modern icons and rising stars carrying the torch forward, supporters were given one simple but powerful task: picking the best XI from an elite pool of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards. 

And now, the stars of the shows: 

#WAC Epic Moments: Relive and win prizes

Sun, 01 Feb, 2026

#WAC Epic Moments: Relive and win prizes

Kuala Lumpur: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has unveiled the AFC Women's Asian Cup™ Epic Moments, offering fans across the world the opportunity to relieve the nostalgia and pick their favorites.  

As the countdown to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ gathers pace, the AFC aims to celebrate the tournament's rich history while building momentum towards the Finals. Revisit the Goals, the Drama, the Glory and vote here 

Launched as part of the official build-up to the competition, Epic Moments invites fans around the world to relive defining scenes from past AFC Women's Asian Cup editions.