The Women’s Asian Cup is due to kick-off on March 1, meaning we are less than two weeks away from a female footballing fiesta hitting our shores.
That’s right, the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup will be played in Australia, meaning the Matildas will once again be front and centre in the public eye.
If the 2023 World Cup which took place Down Under is anything to go by, this is going to be a spectacle not to be missed.
For a comprehensive guide covering the Tillies upcoming fixtures, every group, where and how to watch, as well as a prediction for the overall winner of the tournament, check out our Women’s Asian Cup 2026 preview below.
Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Groups
Group A
Korea Republic.
IR Iran.
Philippines.
Group B
China PR.
Bangladesh.
Uzbekistan.
Group C
Vietnam.
India.
Chinese Taipei.
Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Outright Winner Prediction
The Matildas' lofty standing in the world of women’s football, combined with their home ground advantage, have them installed as the second favourites for the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup.
They may be second favourites, but to us, they’re number one. Led by the iconic Sam Kerr and boasting a balanced squad blending seasoned veterans like Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter with promising young talents such as Amy Sayer and Mary Fowler there’s no reason why they can’t secure their second Asian Cup title, following their historic 2010 victory.
At the time of writing, there is only one team that currently sits above Australia in the outright odds.
That of course is perennial powerhouses Japan. Known for their tactical acumen and fluid style of play, Japan has consistently been a formidable force in international tournaments and have two Asian Cups as well as a World Cup to show for their efforts.
Their ability to perform under pressure makes them a serious threat to Australia’s title ambitions.
The Matildas’ other main threat is North Korea and they cannot be overlooked. Renowned for their physicality and resilience, they have a history of running deep in this competition, including participating in a dramatic final against Australia in 2010.
Still, we were never not going to take the Tillies here. Home is where the heart is and our hearts are firmly with Australia.
Predicted winner: Australia.
Where to Watch the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia
The 2026 Women’s Asian Cup will take place in some of the best stadiums Australia has to offer.
Perth, Sydney and the Gold Coast have been named as the host cities for the tournament, meaning the Cup will traverse three different states.
On the Glitter Strip, Gold Coast Stadium will be the only venue used and will host six games, including Australia’s group game against IR Iran.
Out west, Perth Stadium, a 60,000-seat stadium, will host the opening game as Australia takes on the Philippines and will also host a semi-final game. While Perth Rectangular Stadium will host eight games over the tournament.
Finally, Sydney's Western Sydney Stadium will host six group stage games, while the Stadium Australia will host Australia's group stage game against the Korea Republic, two quarterfinals, one semi-final and the final.
How to Watch the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia
Can’t make it to Perth, Sydney or the Gold Coast to soak up the action in person? Don’t fret! There are plenty of ways to watch the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup from the comfort of your own home.
For all the patriots out there, who are only keen on keeping an eye on the Tillies, Network 10 is the place for you. Network 10 will deliver live coverage of every Matildas’ match, bringing the nation front-row access to Australia’s pursuit of continental glory.
For all the football fanatics who want their fix, Paramount+ have got you covered.
Paramount+ will serve as the exclusive home for every match of the Women’s Asian Cup 2026, including every thrilling moment from the Matildas’ campaign.
Fans can stream every game live, ensuring they never miss a second of the action.
Matildas Group Stage Fixtures
Matildas vs Philippines
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2026.
Venue: Perth Stadium, Perth.
Time: 8:00pm AEDT.
Matildas vs IR Iran
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026.
Venue: Gold Coast Stadium, Gold Coast.
Time: 8:00pm AEDT.
Matildas vs Korea Republic
Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026.
Venue: Stadium Australia, Sydney.
Time: 8:00pm AEDT.