Group stage matches at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 produced early results for Japan and Vietnam, while attention now turns to Australia’s upcoming fixture on the Gold Coast.
Japan began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Chinese Taipei, breaking through a disciplined defence in the second half to claim three points. The tournament favourites controlled much of the play and eventually found the breakthrough through goals from Momoko Tanikawa and Kiko Seike.
Chinese Taipei held firm for long stretches of the match and limited clear chances during the opening period. Japan increased the pressure after the break and converted their advantage with two second-half goals. Chinese Taipei battled bravely but were unable to prevent Japan from sealing the result.
Another Group C contest between Vietnam and India produced a tighter finish, with Vietnam claiming a 2-1 victory after a late goal. Ngân Thị Vạn Sự scored twice for Vietnam, including the winner deep into stoppage time.
India responded strongly during the match and briefly levelled through Sanfida Nongrum after Vietnam had taken the lead. The match remained open until the closing moments when Ngân Thị Vạn Sự struck again to secure the result.
The fixtures form part of the wider tournament taking place across Australia, bringing together teams from across Asia for the continental competition. The event places Australia at the centre of women’s football in the region while also drawing strong interest from countries such as India, where the women’s game continues to build momentum.
Matches continue on Thursday at Gold Coast Stadium. The Philippines will face Korea at 1pm, followed by Iran against Australia at 7pm. Australia enters the fixture with expectations high from home supporters as the host nation seeks a strong start in the tournament.
Fans can follow the competition through match highlights released by the Asian Football Confederation and online coverage of the games. A tournament handbook has also been released, outlining the full match schedule and profiles of players from participating teams.
Tickets for the matches are available from $20 for adults and $10 for children, with organisers encouraging supporters to attend fixtures across the tournament venues in Australia.
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