Defending champions advance to quarter-finals of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026
Sydney | By Sayer Zaland
Defending champions China PR secured their place in the quarter-finals of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 with a comfortable 3–0 win over Uzbekistan in their Group B clash on Friday.
Despite making nine changes from the side that defeated Bangladesh earlier in the week, China dominated possession from the opening whistle while Uzbekistan sat deep in defense.
Uzbekistan initially managed to limit China’s chances, with Wu Chengshu and Shao Ziqin both sending early efforts wide.
China finally broke the deadlock in the 30th minute when Shao Ziqin converted from the penalty spot after her jersey was pulled by Kholida Dadaboeva, prompting referee Supiree Testhomya to award the spot-kick.
China almost doubled their lead before halftime, but Uzbekistan goalkeeper Maftuna Jonimqulova produced an excellent save to deny Shao.
The second goal came six minutes after the break when Li Mengwen stole possession after a defensive mistake and set up Li Qingtong, who calmly finished into an empty net.
Substitute Tang Jiali later tested Jonimqulova with a curling shot as China continued to press.
China sealed the victory in the 77th minute when Li Qingtong headed home Zhang Xin’s cross to score her second goal and complete a dominant performance.
The result also confirmed North Korea’s progression to the knockout stage, with the two East Asian sides set to meet on Monday to decide the Group B winner.