Australia’s run at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 is reaching its biggest test yet later tonight, with the Matildas set to face defending champions China PR in the tournament’s first Semi Final. A win would see Australia progress to the Final at Stadium Australia and move one step closer to lifting the continental title on home soil. So if you’re planning to watch, here’s what you need to know.
When is the Matildas vs China PR Semi Final?
The match is taking place at Perth Stadium later today – Tuesday 17 March – with kick-off scheduled for 6pm AWST (which translates to 9pm AEDT for those on daylight savings time, and 8pm AEST for viewers on the east coast).
The fixture pits Australia against one of the most decorated teams in Asian women’s football. China PR are nine-time Asian Cup champions and the current title holders, making this one of the most tactically demanding matches Australia will face in the tournament.
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Where can I watch it?
The match will be streamed live and exclusively on Paramount+. Live TV coverage is also available on Network 10 (Channel 10) starting from 8:00 pm AEDT (5:00 pm AWST), with kickoff at 9:00 pm AEDT (6:00 pm AWST) from Perth Stadium.
You can also find one of the many pubs and sports bars near you screening the Semi Final live.
Why is this Semi Final so significant?
From a football perspective, this is arguably the standout fixture of the tournament. China PR remain one of Asia’s most disciplined and technically structured sides, known for their organised defensive shape and ability to control tempo in midfield. Australia, meanwhile, have built momentum through the tournament playing a more direct, high-tempo style.
The winner of the match will progress to Saturday’s Final at Stadium Australia, where the 2026 Asian champions will be crowned.
Why the 2026 Asian Cup has been historic?
This year’s tournament has already set new benchmarks for women’s football in the region. Total attendance has passed 200,000 across matches played in Perth, Sydney and the Gold Coast, with more than 300,000 tickets sold. Quarter Final fixtures between Korea Republic and Uzbekistan, and Japan and the Philippines, also broke records for matches between two non-host nations. With the Semi Finals and Final still to come, the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup has already become the most highly attended edition of the tournament in history.
