The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 quarterfinals delivered high drama and one-sided thrashings as China and South Korea advanced to the semifinals, automatically qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Fans in Perth and Sydney witnessed contrasting paths to glory.
Chinese Taipei put up a valiant fight against China, but succumbed 2-0 after extra time. China dominated possession and chances early on. A potential 39th-minute goal by Wang Shuang was chalked off by VAR, frustrating the favorites. Despite second-half supremacy, the game stayed goalless until Shao Jiakun’s 94th-minute strike.
Drama ensued with a 112th-minute penalty save on Shao’s spot-kick, but Jin Kun’s late run forced an own goal by Chen Ying-hui, clinching the win. China’s 10th title quest continues, though Wang’s suspension looms large. They’ll tackle Australia in the semis, with World Cup dreams realized.
In Sydney, South Korea’s 6-0 demolition of Uzbekistan was clinical. Son Hwa-yeon’s early tap-in set the tone, Yoo-jin’s 20th-minute rocket doubled it. Post-interval, Park Soo-jiyeong, Ji So-yun, Lee Yun-young, and Jang Sel-gi’s penalty sealed a comprehensive victory amid 26 shots to one.
Uzbekistan never threatened, highlighting South Korea’s superiority. The Koreans await the Japan-Philippines quarterfinal winner. These outcomes not only propel the teams forward but signal Asia’s growing footprint on the women’s game worldwide.