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China, South Korea Storm into Women's Asian Cup Semis, Seal 2027 World Cup Berths

China advanced to the semifinals with a hard-fought 2-0 extra-time victory over Chinese Taipei, breaking the deadlock in the 94th minute. South Korea delivered a commanding 6-0 performance against Uzbekistan to secure their place in the final four. By reaching the semifinals, both nations have automatically qualified for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. China will next face host Australia, while South Korea awaits the winner of the Japan versus Philippines quarterfinal.

Key Points: China, South Korea Reach Women's Asian Cup Semifinals

  • China wins 2-0 after extra time
  • South Korea dominates 6-0
  • Both secure 2027 World Cup qualification
  • China faces host Australia next
  • South Korea awaits Japan/Philippines winner
2 min read

Women's Asian Cup 2026: South Korea beat Uzbekistan; China defeat Chinese Taipei to reach semis (round-up)

China beats Chinese Taipei in extra time, South Korea routs Uzbekistan 6-0. Both teams qualify directly for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

"The win keeps China on course for a record-extending 10th continental title. - Xinhua report"

Perth/Sydney, March 14 China and South Korea secured their spots in the semifinals of the AFC Women's Asian Cup and qualified directly for the 2027 World Cup with victories over their respective opponents on Saturday.

China advanced to the semifinals after beating Chinese Taipei 2-0 after extra time in Saturday's quarterfinal.

China settled quickly and controlled possession for long stretches. Wang Shuang thought she had given her side the lead in the 39th minute, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review, reports Xinhua. China remained on top in the second half but could not find a breakthrough in regulation time.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 94th minute, when Shao Ziqin finished from the middle of the area after a pass from Wang. Shao then won a penalty in the 112th minute, but Wurigumula's spot kick was saved. China sealed the result with two minutes left in extra time when Jin Kun surged down the right and forced an own goal by Chen Ying-hui.

The win keeps China on course for a record-extending 10th continental title, though the team will be without Wang for the next match, after the midfielder was handed a yellow card for the second straight match.

China now faces host Australia in Tuesday's semifinal and has also secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, with the four semifinalists earning direct berths. Chinese Taipei will play the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on Thursday in a playoff for one of the remaining two World Cup spots.

South Korea reach last-four stage

South Korea romped to a 6-0 victory over Uzbekistan in Sydney on Saturday.

South Korea, which finished as runner-up at the 2022 Asian Cup, dominated the match with 26 shots to Uzbekistan's one. Son Hwa-yeon opened the scoring in the ninth minute, followed by a long-range goal from Ko Yoo-jin in the 20th minute. Park Soo-jeong, Ji So-yun, and substitute Lee Eun-young added goals in the second half, before Jang Sel-gi converted a late penalty to complete the scoring.

South Korea will play the winner of Sunday's quarterfinal between Japan and the Philippines.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
South Korea's 6-0 win is absolutely dominant! 26 shots to 1 says it all. They look like serious contenders. Japan vs Philippines tomorrow will be interesting. The level of women's football in East Asia is really high.
R
Rohit P
China struggled more than expected against Chinese Taipei. Going to extra time and needing an own goal to seal it... not the most convincing performance. Australia in the semis will be a massive test for them, especially without Wang Shuang. Tough road ahead.
S
Sarah B
The direct World Cup qualification for the semifinalists is a great incentive! Makes these knockout matches even more high-stakes. Best of luck to Chinese Taipei in the playoff – getting to the World Cup would be huge for them.
V
Vikram M
Respect to all the teams. The women's game is growing so fast. As an Indian fan, it's a bit bittersweet watching these matches, but it's also inspiring. We need more coverage and support for our own players. Let's go, Blue Tigresses! 💙
M
Meera T
Shao Ziqin was the hero for China! Breaking the deadlock in extra time shows great mental strength. But that missed penalty could have been costly. Football is a game of small margins. Exciting semifinals lined up! 🤩

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