Bangladesh drawn with North Korea, China and Uzbekistan in Women’s Asian Cup

Bangladesh have been placed in a formidable Group B for the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, alongside Asian giants North Korea, defending champions China, and Uzbekistan. The official draw was held in Sydney on Tuesday, although Bangladesh were notably the only team that did not send a representative to the ceremony.

The tournament, scheduled from 1 to 21 March 2026, will be hosted in Australia, with matches taking place across Sydney, Perth, and the Gold Coast. Several of the venues selected for the tournament previously staged matches during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, underscoring the high-profile nature of the event.

Group B promises intense competition. North Korea, the most successful nation in the tournament’s history with nine titles, make a return to the continental stage with high expectations. China, the reigning champions and three-time winners overall, bring a wealth of experience and pedigree. Uzbekistan, a steadily improving side, complete the group with ambitions of progressing to the knockout rounds.

For Bangladesh, this marks a historic debut at the Asian Cup. Although they face a stern test against three well-established teams, qualifying for the tournament itself is a landmark achievement for women’s football in the country.

In the other groups, hosts Australia have been drawn with South Korea, Iran, and the Philippines in Group A, while Group C comprises Japan, Vietnam, India, and Chinese Taipei. 

Group A: Australia, South Korea, Iran, Philippines

Group B: North Korea, China, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan

Group C: Japan, Vietnam, India, Chinese Taipei