Asian Cup Play-offs: Philippines and North Korea Qualify for World Cup

Philippines and North Korea secure Women's World Cup Spots

The Philippines and North Korea book their spots at the Women's World Cup in Brazil after Asian Cup play-off wins.

Asian Cup play-offs see Philippines and North Korea secure Women's World Cup berths, Japan faces Australia in final...

The Philippines and North Korea have secured their spots at next year's Women's World Cup in Brazil after winning the Asian Cup play-offs. The Philippines defeated Uzbekistan 2-0, with Angela Beard and Jaclyn Sawicki scoring just after half-time. This marks the Philippines' second consecutive World Cup appearance.

North Korea also qualified for the World Cup with a 4-0 win over Chinese Taipei, thanks to a hat-trick from Hong Song-Ok and a goal from Kim Kyong-yong. This is North Korea's first World Cup appearance since 2011. Uzbekistan and Chinese Taipei still have a chance to qualify through inter-confederation play-offs.

North Korea secured a spot in the Women's World Cup with a convincing 4-0 win over Taiwan, thanks to Hong Song-Ok's hat-trick and a goal from Kim Kyong-yong. This marks their first World Cup appearance since 2011, ending a long absence from the global stage.

Korea DPR are headed to the #FIFAWWC 2027! 💪@aramco | #GoEpic pic.twitter.com/yZIsw7Pmma

— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) March 19, 2026

Uzbekistan and Taiwan are still in the running for the World Cup, despite their recent losses. Both teams have moved on to the inter-confederation play-offs, giving them another shot at qualifying for the tournament.

Meanwhile, Japan is set to face hosts Australia in the women's Asian Cup final at Sydney's Stadium Australia on Saturday. Japan secured their spot in the final with a 4-1 win over South Korea, showcasing their impressive form.