The Matildas face a massive test this Friday night as the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup moves into the knockout stages. After a pulsating finish to the group stage, the hosts find themselves on a collision course with one of Asia's most enigmatic and dangerous sides - North Korea. We have the full breakdown and best bet for this Friday night’s quarter-final clash below!
Matildas vs North Korea Preview & Betting Tips
Matildas looking for redemption in Perth
Australia enters the quarter finals after a rollercoaster 3-3 draw against South Korea in Sydney. While the record crowd of over 60,000 was treated to a thriller, including a dramatic 98th minute equaliser from Alanna Kennedy, the result saw the Matildas finish second in Group A on goal difference. This has forced Joe Montemurro’s side to travel across the country to Perth where the pressure is firmly on. The Matildas have looked lethal in attack with Kennedy already netting four goals this tournament, but defensive lapses in the second half against the South Koreans will be a major area of concern for Montemurro heading into a win or go home scenario.
The rising power of North Korea
North Korea arrives in the final eight as perhaps the most dangerous second seed in the draw. They dominated their first two group games, including a 5-0 thumping of Bangladesh, before narrowly falling 2-1 to China in their final group match. This is a young and highly disciplined squad built on the back of recent FIFA U-20 and U-17 World Cup titles. Midfielder Myong Yu-jong is the player to watch as she currently sits at the top of the Golden Boot race with four goals. They play with a relentless high press and technical precision that will test the Matildas' composure at the back far more than their previous opponents.
Stats that matter
- This is North Korea’s first AFC Women's Asian Cup appearance in 16 years after last competing in 2010.
- Alanna Kennedy and Myong Yu-jong are currently the tournament's joint leading goalscorers with four goals each.
- The Matildas have scored eight goals across their three group matches but conceded three in their most recent outing.
A high stakes battle at HBF Park
While the Matildas will have the backing of a passionate Perth crowd, this is a genuine 50/50 match. North Korea’s youth and speed could exploit an Australian defence that looked vulnerable under pressure last Sunday. However, the experience of Kerr, Foord, and Catley in major tournament knockouts is a significant advantage for the hosts. Given both teams' scoring form and the defensive cracks shown by Australia recently, we expect a high tempo game where both sides find the net. The market is leaning towards a tight Matildas win, but the value lies in the goal markets given the attacking talent on display.
Both Teams to Score (Yes)
$1.95 (2 units)
Matildas vs North Korea Match Info & Odds
Date: Friday, 13th March 2026
Location: Perth Rectangular Stadium (HBF Park), Perth
Time: 9:00pm AEDT (6:00pm AWST)
Odds: Australia $1.85 vs North Korea $3.90 (Draw $3.50)
Where to Watch: Live and free on Channel 10 or stream ad-free via Paramount+.
