Former champions Japan began their AFC Women’s Asian Cup journey with a comfortable 2-0 triumph against Chinese Taipei in Western Australia. Japan struggled to score in the initial hour but eventually broke the deadlock in the 61st minute through midfielder Momoko Tanikawa. The victory was sealed by forward Kiko Seike in the 92nd minute, securing Japan’s fourth consecutive win over Chinese Taipei in the tournament.
Despite conceding two goals, Chinese Taipei’s goalkeeper Wang Yu-ting made nine crucial saves during the match, while Japan recorded a total of 30 shots. Japan, a two-time titleholder and four-time runner-up, is the highest-ranked team in their group and is anticipated to lead the standings. In the upcoming match, Japan will face India, while Chinese Taipei will take on Vietnam in Group C at the Perth Rectangular Stadium.
In Group C action, India, a two-time runner-up, will kick off their campaign against Vietnam at the same venue, aiming for a positive start. The top two teams from the group and the best two third-placed teams will progress to the quarterfinals. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup serves as a pathway for the 12 participating nations to secure direct entry to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027. The tournament format allows the four semifinalists to qualify directly, with the two losing quarterfinalists competing for the remaining two spots. The other two teams will enter the Play-off Tournament for a chance to secure a place in the prestigious global event.
