China edge Taiwan in extra time to set up Australia semi-final

Defending champions China women's national football team scored twice in extra time to defeat Chinese Taipei women's national football team 2-0 on Saturday, securing a place in the semi-finals of the AFC Women's Asian Cup against hosts Australia women's national football team.

Shao Ziqin broke the deadlock in the 94th minute with a powerful strike into the right corner during extra time. She later won a penalty in the second half of added time.

Substitute Wurigumula missed the spot kick, but China sealed the victory at Perth Rectangular Stadium when Taiwan defender Chen Ying-hui scored an own goal.

The win keeps China on course for a record-extending 10th Asian Cup title and also guarantees direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

China will face Australia in the semi-final on Tuesday at Perth Stadium, after the hosts defeated North Korea women's national football team 2-1 in their quarter-final.

However, China will be without star midfielder Wang Shuang, who received her second yellow card of the tournament.

“Of course, she’s a loss. There is going to be an opportunity for someone else,” said China head coach Ante Milicic. “These girls are so resilient. I’ll back my girls against any opponent.”

Following the defeat, Taiwan will face North Korea in a play-off for another automatic spot at the 2027 World Cup.

“They put everything they have on the pitch and showed how strong their heart is,” said Taiwan head coach Prasobchoke Chokemor. “We are still on the way to chase our dream of the World Cup.”

The match also carried political undertones due to China’s claim over Taiwan, which competes internationally under the name “Chinese Taipei.” The arrangement is part of a compromise allowing Taiwan to participate in global competitions without presenting itself as a sovereign nation.

A crowd of 5,238 attended the quarter-final, with supporters from both sides present, though Taiwanese fans were more vocal.

Taiwan, known for their disciplined defence, started brightly and showed attacking intent early in the match. China gradually gained control in midfield and thought they had taken the lead just before half-time when Wang Shuang headed in, but the goal was ruled out for handball earlier in the build-up.

China increased the pressure after the break while Taiwan threatened on the counter-attack. Late in regulation time, substitute Yao Wei struck the crossbar, sending the match into extra time where Shao ultimately made the decisive breakthrough.