In a thrilling final qualifier match, Iran women’s national football team secured the last remaining spot for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 with a determined 2-1 victory over Jordan in Amman. The hard-fought win marks a significant achievement for head coach Marziyeh Jafari and her squad, who overcame the odds to book their ticket to one of Asia’s most prestigious football tournaments.
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Iran’s qualification completes the 12-nation lineup that will compete in the tournament hosted by Australia, scheduled to take place across Perth, Gold Coast, and Sydney from March 1 to March 21, 2026. The match against Jordan was a high-stakes encounter with everything on the line, but Iran held their nerve, showed tactical discipline, and made the most of their chances to claim victory and advance.
Their inclusion adds further depth and diversity to an already competitive field. Automatically qualifying for the tournament were the defending champions China, along with Asian football giants Japan and South Korea, and the host nation Australia. These teams bring a wealth of experience and talent, setting the stage for a high-caliber tournament.
Joining Iran among those who came through the qualifiers are India, Bangladesh, Taiwan, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, the Philippines, and North Korea. Each of these teams fought their way through tough qualification campaigns, showcasing the rapid growth and development of women’s football across the continent.
Speaking on Sunday, Sarah Walsh, Chief of the Local Organising Committee, highlighted the growing excitement and significance of the event. “It’s an incredibly exciting time for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 — the final 12 teams are locked in,” she said. “There’s a real energy building, not just here in Australia but across Asia, and this diverse, high-quality line-up shows just how far women’s football has come.”
Indeed, the 2026 edition of the tournament promises to be a landmark moment for women’s football in Asia. The inclusion of emerging teams alongside established heavyweights reflects the evolving landscape of the sport and hints at a highly competitive tournament ahead. For Iran, the qualification is particularly meaningful, serving as a sign of progress and increasing opportunities for female athletes in the country.
Australia, the host nation, is expected to deliver a world-class event, building on the momentum and enthusiasm generated by previous international tournaments held in the country. With top-tier stadiums, strong local support, and a growing fanbase for women’s sports, the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup is poised to set new standards.
The official draw for the tournament will take place in Sydney on July 29, where the 12 qualified teams will learn their group stage fate. With the final lineup now confirmed, attention will turn to preparations, squad selections, and the anticipation of matchday drama. Fans across the continent are eagerly awaiting fixtures that promise to deliver passion, pride, and top-tier football.
Iran’s story, from underdog to qualified contender, adds an inspiring chapter to the tournament’s build-up. Their journey reflects the resilience and spirit of women’s football in Asia, which continues to break new ground and challenge expectations. As the countdown to March 2026 begins, the stage is set for a spectacular showcase of talent, unity, and determination at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia.
