November 18 – The 3rd AFC Women’s Football Conference has concluded in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, following three days of discussions aimed at elevating women’s football in Asia.
Held from November 12-14, the event brought together women’s national team coaches, technical staff, and key stakeholders to define strategies for sustainable progress in the women’s game.
Coming off an extraordinary year for women’s football globally, the conference placed emphasis on capitalising on Asia’s recent successes, including Australia’s semi-final appearance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and DPR Korea’s dual victories at the FIFA U-20 and U-17 Women’s World Cups.
These achievements were celebrated during the conference’s opening sessions, setting the tone for dialogue on advancing standards across the continent.
The conference programme combined knowledge-sharing sessions, best practice discussions, and strategic planning, reaffirming the AFC’s commitment to developing women’s football and maintaining Asia’s competitive edge on the global stage.
“The AFC has underlined the development of women’s football as one of the key drivers in bringing to life our Vision and Mission statements and nowhere are these ambitions more pronounced than in the Asian women’s game with our teams, across all ages, already being a global force,” said AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John.
“This year, we’ve celebrated several milestones such as an all-Asian final in Colombia, DPR Korea’s incredible triumphs, and the launch of the AFC Women’s Champions League. We must keep up the momentum and use this platform to unlock the true potential of women’s football in Asia.”
Last held in 2019, the conference commenced with the annual AFC Special Grassroots Awards and AFC Special Elite Youth Football Awards, honouring the efforts of the Confederation’s Member Associations (MAs) in nurturing the future generations of Asian football.
Vietnam emerged as big winners at the awards, with Nguyen Hoang Phuong receiving the prestigious Best Grassroots Leader award and the Football For All in Vietnam initiative being recognised as the Best Grassroots Project. Meanwhile, China’s Tianjin Pengcheng Football Club was acknowledged as the Best Grassroots Club and the accolade of Best Grassroots Competition went to Malaysia’s Liga Suparimau.
“Our collective duty is to ensure we build a brighter future by enhancing our structures of excellence more systematically and cohesively,” said John.
“Therefore, it delights me to witness our unsung heroes being honoured for their dedicated efforts to grow the grassroots movement on the Continent.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1734805619labto1734805619ofdlr1734805619owedi1734805619sni@g1734805619niwe.1734805619yrrah1734805619
