AFC Women's Asian Cup - Team comes first for China PR’s Wurigumula

Sydney: Team success and harmony comes first for Wurigumula over personal glory, with the forward determined to play her part in China PR’s title defence at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™.

Head coach Ante Milicic has opted to keep the squad fresh by rotating the team for the earlier Group B matches against Bangladesh and Uzbekistan, which saw the Steel Roses picking up maximum points to secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Wurigumula started in the 2-0 win against Bangladesh but was unused in the 3-0 triumph against Uzbekistan.

“It’s not easy because as players we want to always play,” said Wurigumula. “But for the team, we understand what the head coach and coaching staff want from us.

“From our perspective, it’s about following the instructions - tactically and technically. Then it’s just doing our best to put in the best performance and enjoy the game.”

The 29-year-old has already experienced playing in Australia prior to this tournament, having spent time on loan to Central Coast Mariners in the 2023/24 season.

It was a successful period for Wurigumula, scoring eight goals and picking up the Fans’ Player of the Year award for her shining displays.

Now back with Chinese Women’s Super League side Changchun Dazhong, the Inner Mongolia-born is keen to keep up China PR’s fantastic start to the tournament when they face-off against DPR Korea on Monday to determine who tops Group B.

“We know that we are up against a DPR Korea side that is very strong. They have a very strong attack so we need to stay focused and prepare well.”