The State of Women's Soccer Ahead of the 2026 AFC Asian Cup

The Australian women's soccer team, known as the Matildas, has experienced a significant boost in popularity and participation following their co-hosting of the 2023 Women’s World Cup alongside New Zealand. Despite their semi-final exit against England, the tournament catalyzed a surge in national interest, with TV viewership peaking at 11.15 million during their quarter-final victory over France. The Matildas' journey has been marked by milestones, including a successful strike for equal pay in 2015 and a subsequent agreement in 2019 to close the wage gap with the men's team. As Australia prepares to host the 2026 AFC Asian Cup, the team aims for its first major international trophy on home soil.

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While the Matildas' success has elevated the profile of women's soccer, the domestic league, the A-League Women (ALW), faces challenges in maintaining this momentum. Reports from the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) indicate a 26% drop in attendances for the ALW, with many players needing secondary jobs to support their soccer careers. The average salary in the league is approximately AUD 30,000, significantly lower than in other major women's sports in Australia. Clare Wheeler, a midfielder for the Matildas, expressed concerns about the sustainability of the league and the need for better support structures for players.

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The 2026 AFC Asian Cup, which begins with Australia facing the Philippines, presents an opportunity for the Matildas to capitalize on their recent success. The tournament will determine qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil and the 2028 Olympics. With over 150,000 tickets sold prior to the tournament, there is optimism for strong attendance and support. However, the ALW's struggles raise questions about whether the excitement generated by the national team can translate into sustained interest at the domestic level.

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In contrast, the South Korean women's national soccer team is entering the Asian Cup amid controversies that have overshadowed their preparations. Following demands for improved conditions, including business class travel for international tournaments, the Korea Football Association agreed to some of the players' requests. However, criticism arose regarding the perceived disparity between the women's and men's teams, particularly in light of the team's previous performance and marketability. Veteran player Cho So-hyun's comments about luxury uniforms further fueled public scrutiny, adding pressure on the team as they aim to perform well in the tournament.

Women's Soccer Is Embattled to Controversy Over Prada at Business Seat, Asian Cup Has Increased BurdenNew York Times

As both Australia and South Korea prepare for the 2026 AFC Asian Cup, the contrasting narratives highlight the complexities facing women's soccer in the region. Australia seeks to build on its recent successes and establish a robust domestic league, while South Korea grapples with internal challenges and public expectations. The outcomes of the tournament may significantly influence the future of women's soccer in both nations, shaping the landscape for years to come.

Women's Soccer Is Embattled to Controversy Over Prada at Business Seat, Asian Cup Has Increased Burden