The quarterfinals of the 2026 U17 Women’s Asian Cup concluded on May 11, with China PR cruising past India 3-0 to book a spot in the semifinals and secure a berth at the U17 Women’s World Cup. In the other match from the lower half, DPR Korea thrashed Thailand 6-0. Combined with Japan and Australia advancing earlier in the day, the semifinal matchups are now confirmed:
As the host nation, China PR entered the tournament with the clear ambition of winning the title, led by former women’s national team star Ma Xiaoxu as head coach. In the group stage, China impressed with three commanding wins—6-0 against Myanmar, 3-0 against Vietnam, and 6-0 against Thailand—topping the group with nine points and no goals conceded.
In the quarterfinal against India, a team that advanced as a third-placed finisher, China dominated from start to finish. The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Liu Yuxi delivered a low cross from the byline, and Huang Qinyi calmly slotted home from close range. Just before halftime, in the 45+3rd minute, Liu Yuxi was brought down in the penalty area, earning a spot kick. She stepped up and converted to make it 2-0. After the break, China continued to control play, and in the 90th minute, Li Qixian fired in a powerful shot to complete the 3-0 victory.
Statistics highlighted China’s dominance: 28 shots in total, 6 on target, and 75% possession, while India managed just 25% of the ball. Despite the win, head coach Ma Xiaoxu will be keen to improve their conversion rate as tougher challenges lie ahead.
Meanwhile, DPR Korea dismantled Thailand 6-0, scoring three goals in each half. The North Korean side, winners of the last two U17 Women’s World Cups—including a 3-0 demolition of the Netherlands in the 2025 final—boast superior individual quality and experience.
The semifinals are scheduled for May 14. Japan takes on Australia at 3:00 PM local time, followed by China PR vs DPR Korea at 7:30 PM. For Ma Xiaoxu and her young squad, the real test begins now. By leveraging home advantage, solid defending, and perhaps taking the game to extra time or penalties, China will aim to overcome the formidable North Koreans. A place in the final would give them a 50% chance of lifting the trophy on home soil.
