Uzbekistan Make Historic AFC Women’s Asian Cup Quarter-Finals | Japan Face Philippines 2026

Uzbekistan secured a landmark place in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ quarter‑finals for the first time on Monday after a dominant 4‑0 win over Bangladesh, while defending champions China PR finished atop Group B by beating DPR Korea 2‑1. The tournament’s knockout stage is now set, with high‑profile clashes scheduled across Perth and Sydney this weekend.

Uzbekistan’s victory at Perth Rectangular Stadium was built on early pressure that paid off inside 10 minutes through Diyorakhon Khabibullaeva, and was compounded by second‑half goals from Dildora Nozimova and a late clincher by Nilufar Kudratova in the 88th minute. The result ensured Uzbekistan progressed as one of the two best third‑placed teams, their first advancement beyond the group stage in the competition’s history and their first quarter‑final appearance in 23 years.

Midfielder Kudratova, who also set up Uzbekistan’s opening goal, credited the team’s resilience and composure for turning around a challenging group run. “In the first half we rushed our play… second half we played with more control,” she said, acknowledging the squad’s mental strength after narrowing the required goal margin.

Head coach Kotryna Kulbyte praised her players for delivering on the historic moment. “To advance from the group stage for the first time is a huge moment for us,” she said, emphasising the achievement’s potential to inspire future generations and support the growth of women’s football in Uzbekistan.

Bangladesh, competing in their maiden Women’s Asian Cup, finished bottom of Group B without scoring, following previous defeats to China PR and DPR Korea. Coach Peter Butler highlighted positive aspects of his squad’s performance despite the heavy loss.

In Sydney on Monday, China PR overcame DPR Korea with a late goal from Wang Shuang after conceding an early strike from Kim Kyong Yong. The 2‑1 result secured top spot in Group B for the defending champions.

China’s head coach Ante Milicic commended his side’s discipline and ability to capitalise on set‑pieces, areas the team focused heavily on in training. “A difficult game… proud of the girls,” he said after the win. DPR Korea coach Ri Song Ho acknowledged his team’s need to improve mental readiness and tactical execution as they prepare to face Australia in their quarter‑final.

Quarter-Final Fixtures

• Australia v DPR Korea – Friday, 13 March (Perth)

• China PR v Chinese Taipei – Saturday, 14 March (Perth)

• South Korea v Uzbekistan – Saturday, 14 March (Sydney)

• Japan v Philippines – Sunday, 15 March (Sydney)

Japan topped Group C undefeated with 17 goals scored and none conceded, and will now face the Philippines, who advanced as Group A’s third-placed side for the second consecutive edition. Chinese Taipei also progressed as Group C runners-up.

All quarter-finalists automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup™ playoffs, intensifying the stakes as the tournament moves into its decisive phase. Official fixtures, results, and match details are available at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ website.