The official draw, held Tuesday at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, placed China and North Korea in Group B, alongside Thailand and Uzbekistan. The draw immediately set off buzz across Asia, with fans and analysts eyeing the China–North Korea clash as a potential early decider in the race for group dominance.
“This is a very tough group,” said Shui Qingxia, head coach of China’s women’s national team. “North Korea are unpredictable and very disciplined. We have great respect for them, but we’ll be ready.”
China, eight-time champions of the competition and current titleholders after their dramatic 2022 triumph in India, are aiming to retain their crown amid growing competition across the continent. North Korea, returning to the tournament after a period of international absence, remain a formidable force, with a reputation for tactical discipline and physical prowess.
The encounter between the two sides will not only be a high-stakes match in footballing terms but also symbolically significant, given the longstanding political and sporting rivalry between the two East Asian nations.
North Korea’s participation marks a notable comeback. The team last appeared in the tournament in 2014, and their return has stirred interest, particularly after their dominant performances in recent regional qualifiers. AFC officials have welcomed their inclusion as a sign of renewed competitiveness in women’s football across Asia.
“We’re excited to see North Korea back on the continental stage,” said AFC General Secretary Datuk Windsor Paul John. “Their presence raises the standard of competition and adds historical depth to the tournament.”
Elsewhere in the draw, hosts Saudi Arabia making their Women’s Asian Cup debut — were placed in Group A alongside Japan, Vietnam, and Jordan. Meanwhile, Group C will feature Australia, South Korea, Iran, and the Philippines, setting up another series of intriguing encounters.
The tournament, set to kick off in Riyadh in January 2026, is being billed as a landmark moment for women’s football in the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia’s hosting symbolizing shifting cultural attitudes and a drive to promote gender inclusion in sports.
China’s clash with North Korea is expected to headline the opening round of fixtures in Group B. While China enters as the favorite on paper, North Korea’s hunger to re-establish themselves could make for a fierce and unpredictable showdown.
“We know our strengths, but we’re also aware that the competition has grown sharper,” added coach Shui. “We’ll take it one match at a time, starting with what will be a very tough opener.”
With continental glory at stake and rising talent across all squads, the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup is shaping up to be one of the most compelling editions in the tournament’s history.