Joy for Japan; heartbreak for Australia

Sat, 21 Mar, 2026

Joy for Japan; heartbreak for Australia

Sydney:  A spectacular Maika Hamano strike sent Japan into seventh heaven as they defeated Australia 1-0 to win the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ final on Saturday.

The midfielder’s first half goal proved to be the decider in front of a record breaking crowd of 74,397 at an AFC Women’s Asian Cup match as the Nadeshiko were crowned Asian champions for the third time, following triumphs in 2014 and 2018 - also at Australia’s expense. 

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Australia’s Kennedy named Most Valuable Player

Sat, 21 Mar, 2026

Australia’s Kennedy named Most Valuable Player

Sydney: Australia's Alanna Kennedy was crowned the Most Valuable Player of the AFC Asian Cup Australia 2026™ after producing eye-catching performances throughout the tournament.

Australia’s 1-0 defeat to Japan in the final on Saturday did not take away a standout campaign for the 31-year-old.

Japan's Ueki earns Top Goal Scorer accolade

Sat, 21 Mar, 2026

Japan's Ueki earns Top Goal Scorer accolade

Sydney: Riko Ueki emerged as the Top Goal Scorer of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™, with the Japanese star finishing the tournament on six goals.

The West Ham United star produced a consistent campaign with her finishing helping power Japan to a third title following their 1-0 win against Australia in the final on Saturday.

Japan’s Yamashita scoops Best Goalkeeper award

Sat, 21 Mar, 2026

Japan’s Yamashita scoops Best Goalkeeper award

Sydney: Ayaka Yamashita was named the Best Goalkeeper after helping Japan win the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ title with a 1-0 win against Australia in the final on Saturday.

The Manchester City custodian earned her second continental honour, having also been part of the 2018 squad.

Ri’s tactical masterclass secures DPR Korea passage to Brazil

Fri, 20 Mar, 2026

Ri’s tactical masterclass secures DPR Korea passage to Brazil

Gold Coast: Head coach Ri Song Ho's firmness in decision making paved the way for DPR Korea’s 4-0 win over Chinese Taipei as they sealed qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 on Thursday.

Ri decided to send on Ri Hak in place of Choe Il Son in the 31st minute and the switch paid off almost instantly with Hong Song Ok opening their account a minute later.

Guy realises World Cup dream with Philippines

Fri, 20 Mar, 2026

Guy realises World Cup dream with Philippines

Gold Coast: Jael-Marie Guy stood at the heart of another historic moment for her nation, delivering a Player of the Match performance as the Philippines sealed qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 on Thursday.

Guy’s assists led to second-half goals from Angela Beard and Jaclyn Sawicki as the Philippines confirmed a second consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance at the Gold Coast Stadium.