Riko Ueki and Maika Hamano scored first-half goals to set Japan on course for a 4-1 victory over South Korea and a spot in the Women's Asian Cup final against Australia. Japan dominated the semifinal on Wednesday at Sydney's Stadium Australia against a South Korea lineup that edged the Australians on goal difference in the group stage.
Manchester City's Mary Fowler made her first start since tearing her ACL almost a year ago, poking the ball into the net in the 26th minute after a deep Caitlin Foord cross was spilled by Iran goalkeeper Maryam Yektaei.
The AFC Women's Asian Cup heads to Australia next year, as Australia get set to host their second major women's football competition in three years after the 2023 World Cup. From March 1-21 2026, 12 nations will take part in the competition, with a total of 27 matches taking place across Perth, Sydney and the Gold Coast. With nine titles under their belt, reigning champions China are the most successful team in the competition.
