Women's Soccer in Asia Soars: AFC Champions League Launches Amid High Hopes

Women's soccer in Asia is experiencing a surge in popularity following captivating World Cup performances. The new AFC Women's Champions League aims to capitalize on this momentum. With 12 teams competing, the tournament promises thrilling matches and significant financial rewards. However, concerns remain about the professional status of players.

Women's soccer in Asia is reaching new heights after a series of captivating World Cup performances, raising expectations for the inaugural AFC Women's Champions League.

Last month's victory by North Korea over Japan in the Under-20 World Cup has reignited focus on the women's game across the continent. Australia's impressive run to the semi-finals in the Women's World Cup it co-hosted last year with New Zealand also drew record crowds and spotlighted regional talent.

The revamped continental club championship's group stage kicks off this week with Japan's Urawa Red Diamond Ladies flying the flag. The Reds aim to replicate their success from May's Women's Club Championship, a pilot for the current league, by overcoming South Korea's Incheon Red Angels in the final.

"To have two Asian nations in the (under-20) World Cup final is good for Asia and good for us, too, as we have rivals to compete with," said Urawa coach Naoki Kusunose. "We are grateful for this new challenge in club soccer — and we want to move on to the next step and win the Women's AFC Champions League."

The twelve-team tournament, split into three groups of four, will see Urawa clash with India's Odisha on Thursday. Group C matches will be held in Vietnam, with top teams advancing to the quarter-finals next March, and the semi-finals and final set for May 2025.

Other notable teams include Australia's Melbourne City, facing Iran's Bam Khatoon in Group B, and Incheon Red Angels in Group A against opponents from Malaysia, China, and the UAE.

AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa stated, "We are confident that the competition will empower women in Asian football, contributing to gender equality and breaking down societal barriers."

Despite the excitement, a FIFPro report highlighted that just 62% of players identified as professional, and many earned less than USD 10,000 per season. FIFPro board member Kathryn Gill emphasized the need for genuine partnerships among stakeholders for the sport's sustainable growth.

(With inputs from agencies.)