The Gold Coast will host two of the most important matches at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 on Thursday 19 March, as four national teams compete for the final two automatic qualification places at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Play-off 1 will kick off at 1:00pm AEST, with Uzbekistan taking on the Philippines, before DPR Korea face Chinese Taipei in Play-off 2 at 7:00pm AEST at Gold Coast Stadium.
Despite narrowly missing out in the Quarter Finals of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, all four teams remain in the hunt, and now face a decisive challenge for the final direct tickets to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027.
Fans in Queensland are encouraged to come out and support the teams in what promises to be a thrilling double-header of international football on the Gold Coast.
With national pride and World Cup ambition driving every moment, the crowd will play a key role in creating a memorable atmosphere for the players as they fight to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Tickets are available now and fans are encouraged to secure theirs early for this unique opportunity to witness international football history unfold on the Gold Coast.
Quote attributable to Sarah Walsh, Chief Operating Officer, AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™:
“The AFC Women’s Asian Cup has already delivered incredible football and unforgettable moments, and the drama isn’t over yet.
“Alongside the Final, these play-off matches are incredibly significant because the stakes couldn’t be higher. Two teams will walk away with the final automatic qualification spots for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, so everything is on the line.
“We’re excited to bring another day of international football to the Gold Coast and encourage fans across Queensland to come along to Gold Coast Stadium and experience it live. It’s a rare opportunity to see teams fighting for their World Cup future right here in our backyard.”
Quote attributable to QLD Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Hon. Andrew Powell MP:
“Queensland has a plan to become the event capital of Australia and hosting an unforgettable Women’s Asian Cup on the Gold Coast has helped us cement this reputation.
“This tournament has brought global talent, passionate fans, and a vibrant atmosphere to our iconic tourism region.
“These matches highlight the strength of Queensland’s global appeal as a destination for world‑class events.”
Quote attributable to Gold Coast Mayor, Tom Tate:
“The Gold Coast is proud to host these crucial FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification play-offs right here.
“With so much on the line for these teams, fans can expect an electric atmosphere and world-class football.
“It’s a great opportunity for locals and visitors to come together, support these incredible athletes and celebrate international sport while experiencing the excitement of global football on the Gold Coast.”
Quote attributable to Chinese Taipei Head Coach, Prasobchoke Chokemor:
“I’m very proud of my players – they gave everything on the pitch and showed great heart and physical commitment. There is nothing for them to be sorry about. We are still in the race for FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 qualification, and we will go back, rest and come back stronger.”
Quote attributable to Philippines Head Coach, Mark Torcaso:
“Philippines have played the three best teams in Asia, I believe and we’ve done a damn good job at doing now. Now, we’re in a position, we’ve set ourselves up to qualify. Now we have a good focus on what we need to do against Uzbekistan.
“We are in a fantastic position to go to a World Cup. Believe it or not, even if we do lose that game, which we will not, they still have an opportunity through the inter-continental. The girls have done so well to get to this position.
“I know going into this next game we are going to be so determined to make sure we get on that plane to Brazil next year.”
Quote attributable to Uzbekistan Head Coach, Kotryna Kulbyte:
“We already did our job here by reaching the quarter finals but we still have one more goal to achieve. We dream of reaching the World Cup and we hope to do our job there.
“Inside the team we have the World Cup dream, and we agreed to do everything for that and now it’s time to switch the focus towards that.”
Quote attributable to Korea DPR Head Coach, Ri Song Ho:
“Even though we lost, I’m proud that our players fought until the very last moment. We conceded two goals from simple mistakes and that made the difference.
“The whole game was a valuable lesson for the team and for our development. Matches like this are a good opportunity for us to improve and continue building the team.”
Buy tickets: Lock in your tickets here.
Learn more: For tournament related information and updates head here.