Asian Teams Gear Up for FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualification in Tough Draw
The excitement is building as the draw for the final stage of FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification took place in Sydney, unveiling a challenging path for the host nation Australia and eleven other Asian contenders. This crucial tournament will determine which teams earn a coveted spot in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.
In a ceremony held at Sydney’s Town Hall, prominent figures from across the continent, including India’s Sangita Basfore and Korea Republic star Jeon Yugyeong, gathered to witness the draw. The competition features twelve nations vying for six direct berths to the World Cup, while an additional two teams will qualify for a Play-Off Tournament.
Australia, placed in Group A, faces a formidable challenge with their first match against the Philippines, a team that surprised many in the last global finals. The group also includes Korea Republic and IR Iran, setting the stage for thrilling encounters.
Group B features a showdown between the two most successful nations in Asian history: Korea DPR and China PR, alongside Bangladesh and Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, Group C is headlined by Japan—currently ranked seventh in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking—along with Vietnam, India, and Chinese Taipei.
The tournament format allows the top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, to advance to the knockout stage. The four quarter-final winners will secure their places in Brazil, while the losing teams will compete in two one-off matches to determine the final two direct qualifiers. The defeated teams will then enter the Play-Off Tournament, where ten nations will vie for the last three spots at the global showcase.
Australia’s head coach Joe Montemurro expressed optimism about the upcoming matches, stating, “There are some amazing games and it’s set up to be an amazing tournament. Our fans will come out and support us, making every game a special occasion.”
Kotryna Kulbyte, the head coach of Uzbekistan, reflected on her team’s journey, saying, “Uzbekistan hasn’t taken part at this level for two decades, so it’s a big honor and responsibility. We will take each match at a time with belief and courage, knowing that at this level there are no easy opponents.”
