The Gold Coast has officially welcomed the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™, with Korea Republic claiming the win over the Islamic Republic of Iran in the city’s first tournament match on Monday 2 March at Gold Coast Stadium.
This is the first of four world-class group fixtures and two high-stakes play-offs being played on the Gold Coast that will help determine qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Over 21 days, Asia’s top 12 teams will compete for continental glory, delivering elite skill, fierce competition and unforgettable moments that will inspire fans across the region, including Australia, Bangladesh, China PR, Chinese Taipei, DPR Korea, India, IR Iran, Japan, Korea Republic, Philippines, Vietnam and Uzbekistan.
Excitement is building as the CommBank Matildas arrive on the Gold Coast and prepare for their clash against Iran at Gold Coast Stadium, Robina on Thursday 5 March, the first match of the tournament to sell out its initial ticket allocation.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said “The largest women’s sporting tournament our city has ever seen, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 is finally here on the Gold Coast, and I’ll be there cheering from the stands.
“Let’s Get up and Gold Coast and pack the stadium to back not just our Matildas, but all the best women’s football teams competing in our great city.”
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said “This tournament is bringing world-class football to our shores and is a powerful recognition of our city’s passion for sport, for community and for world-class events.”
“We’re also thrilled to welcome the Matildas back to the Gold Coast for the first time since the they took on Brazil in 2024, along with the national teams of Iran, the Philippines and Korea Republic all competing in the group stages.
“This tournament is a powerful celebration of sport’s ability to bring fans, cultures and communities together, both on and off the field and we cannot wait to deliver a truly memorable experience, not only inside the stadium, but right across our vibrant beachside city.”
Gold Coast local and Matildas star Hayley Raso said, “There’s nothing more special than representing Australia and to do it at home on the Gold Coast fills me with so much pride and joy.”
“To play in front of my family, friends and our fans in my hometown, the place where I first started playing the game, is the greatest honour. I can’t wait to see all the Gold Coasters there and feel their support.”
For those who missed out on tickets to the Matildas and Iran match, a free live site event is being set up at Kurrawa Park for fans to come together and watch all the action on the big screen.
Fellow Gold Coaster, Olympian and Matildas midfielder Tameka Yallop said, “Preparations are in full swing with the Matlidas and Iran match fast approaching and the excitement is almost at boiling point.”
“To host this massive women’s football tournament for the first time on the Gold Coast is huge and to have it right here in my backyard, where I fell in love with the game, is a pinch yourself moment.
“Whether you’re a spectator, full on football fan, Matildas’ fanatic or a baller yourself, the WAC 2026 is going to bring some of the best women’s football you’ll ever see live. As a proud Matilda, I know I don’t want to miss a second of it.”
Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said “The Crisafulli Government is proud to support the AFC Women’s Asian Cup as it showcases women’s football and puts Queensland on the international stage.
“Fans from Australia and across Asia will enjoy world class football alongside Queensland’s beaches, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, strengthening our standing as the Home of the Holiday.
“The AFC Women’s Asian Cup directly supports Destination 2045, strengthening Queensland’s position as Australia’s event capital and delivering lasting tourism and business benefits.”
Australia, Bangladesh, China PR, Chinese Taipei, DPR Korea, India, IR Iran, Japan, Korea Republic, Philippines, Vietnam and Uzbekistan will contest 27 matches of world-class football from 1–21 March, in what promises to be a spectacular celebration of the women’s game.
Tickets for all Gold Coast matches including the knockout rounds are selling fast and available HERE.
A series of Live Site experiences will be available to watch a selection of interstate matches on the big screen at dedicated fan zones. Full details of Live Site locations and event information can be found HERE.
CONTACT Jo Wormald | 0412 996 011 | jo.wormald@experiencegoldcoast.com
THE LATEST
News
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.