Overview
- Australia finished second in Group A after a 3-3 draw with South Korea, rescued by Alanna Kennedy’s goal deep into stoppage time.
- The Matildas will face North Korea in Perth on Friday, while China claimed first place in Group B with a 2-1 win.
- China’s winner was awarded to Wang Shuang after a VAR review in first-half stoppage time, prompting North Korea to refuse to resume play for several minutes and later see a potential equaliser overturned for offside.
- Vice-captain Steph Catley is in concussion protocols and is doubtful for the quarterfinal, though Hayley Raso is a chance to return.
- Group C concluded with Japan beating Vietnam 4-0 and Taiwan defeating India 3-1, setting China vs Taiwan and Japan vs the Philippines in the quarterfinals, with Vietnam eliminated and Uzbekistan and the Philippines advancing as the best third-placed teams.