April 14 – The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed Thailand and China as the host nations for its upcoming women’s youth tournaments, marking a significant step forward in the regional body’s strategy to elevate the women’s game across Asia.
Following approval by the AFC Executive Committee on April 11, The Football Association of Thailand (FAT) has been awarded hosting rights for the U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026, while the Chinese Football Association (CFA) will host three consecutive editions of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup from 2026 to 2028.
It will be the second time Thailand has hosted the U20 competition, while China extends its long-standing involvement in the U17 tournament, bringing its tally to six editions hosted. China previously staged the event for three straight editions between 2011 and 2015.
The AFC’s push to strengthen pathways in the women’s game with the U17 competition becoming annual, corresponds with the now annual U17 Women’s World Cup. Both tournaments play a vital role in identifying emerging talent and preparing teams for global competition.
Reigning champions DPR Korea will head into both events looking to defend their titles, having not only lifted the continental trophies but also having gone on to become world champions at youth level in 2024.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1744748341labto1744748341ofdlr1744748341owedi1744748341sni@g1744748341niwe.1744748341yrrah1744748341
