The Matildas are just one win away from the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup Final as they prepare for a massive semi-final clash against China PR this Tuesday night. After a thrilling victory over North Korea on Friday, Australia now faces their toughest test of the tournament under the bright lights at Perth Stadium. We have our full match preview and best betting tip for the blockbuster showdown below!
Matildas vs China PR Preview and Betting Tips: AFC Women's Asian Cup Semi Final
Matildas dig deep to reach final four
Australia punched their ticket to the semi-finals with a hard fought 2-1 win over North Korea on Friday night. The Matildas showed tremendous grit to hold off a relentless North Korean side, with Alanna Kennedy continuing her incredible scoring run by netting her fifth goal of the tournament. Sam Kerr added the second in front of her home crowd in Perth, securing the victory and ensuring Australia's qualification for the 2027 World Cup. Head coach Joe Montemurro will be pleased with his side's defensive resilience after a shaky second half in their previous match, but they face a major step up in class on Tuesday.
The reigning champions stand in the way
China PR are the defending Asian Cup champions and have shown exactly why throughout this tournament. Led by former Matildas coach Ante Milicic, they topped Group B with a perfect record before being pushed to the absolute limit in their quarter final against Chinese Taipei. That match went to extra time before China eventually broke the deadlock in the 94th minute to win 2-0. They are a highly physical, structured, and technically gifted side that knows how to grind out results in tournament football. Milicic's intimate knowledge of the Australian setup adds another fascinating tactical layer to this clash.
Stats that matter
- China are aiming to defend their 2022 Asian Cup title and are undefeated so far in the 2026 tournament.
- Alanna Kennedy currently leads the Golden Boot race with five goals for Australia.
- There have been exactly two goals scored in each of the last four meetings between these teams.
A tactical chess match at Perth Stadium
This shapes up as an incredibly tight encounter. China will likely look to frustrate the Matildas, setting up in a disciplined defensive block and relying on their fitness to outwork the hosts. Given China were forced to play 120 minutes on Saturday, fatigue could be a factor in the closing stages, but their defensive organisation under Milicic is elite. Australia has the attacking firepower with Kerr and Kennedy, but space will be at a premium. Expect a cautious, low scoring affair where a single moment of brilliance could decide who progresses to the Final.
Under 2.5 Goals
$1.85 (2 units)
Matildas vs China PR Match Info and Odds
Date: Tuesday, 17th March 2026
Location: Perth Stadium, Perth
Time: 9:00pm AEDT (6:00pm AWST)
Odds: Australia $1.70 vs China PR $4.60 (Draw $3.70)
Where to Watch: Live and free on Channel 10 or stream ad free via Paramount+.
