Australia
Australia
Australia will host the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup and have a rich history since joining the AFC in 2006. The Matildas, currently ranked 3rd in Asia (16th in the world), are a hometown favourite for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ 2026.
Australia have reached the final on four occasions in 2006, 2010, 2014 & 2018. After finishing runners up to China in 2006, going down 4-2 in penalties to the 9-time champions, they went one better defeating North Korea in dramatic fashion in 2010. After a 16yr old Sam Kerr, opened scoring in the 19th minute against women’s football powerhouses North Korea, a late equaliser once again took the final to penalties. This time Australia were flawless, prevailing 5-4 for their maiden crown. Kyah Simon famously slotted the final penalty to seal the victory.
.jpg)
.jpg)
The Australian players currently feature in the leading leagues around the world including the English Women’s Super League (WSL), French Division 1 Feminine, and National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the USA. With the likes of Hayley Raso & Charli Grant at Tottenham, Sam Kerr at Chelsea, Mary Fowler at Manchester City, Ellie Carpentar at Lyon, Mackenzie Arnold, Emily van Egmond and Courtney Vine playing in the NWSL, plus recent Champions League winners Caitlin Foord, Steph Catley, Kyra Cooney-Cross at Arsenal the Aussies are continuing to build an incredible level and experience.
After record breaking attendance and performances in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup the Matildas have a huge following bringing strong momentum into the tournament. With the leading all-time goal scorer for Australia, Sam Kerr, returning to the team they are looking as one of the strong contenders in 2026.
