China begin Women's Futsal Asian Cup with 3-1 victory over Australia

The 2025 Women's Futsal Asian Cup commenced in Hohhot with a strong start for hosts China, who defeated Australia 3-1 in their Group A opener on Tuesday.

China drew with Australia, Chinese Taipei and Uzbekistan in Group A, but wasted no time asserting their authority in this match, notching two goals before the halftime whistle. With 6 minutes and 10 seconds remaining in the first period, captain Zhan Huimin capitalized on a fluid attacking move, pouncing on a rebound to slam home the opener. The hosts' momentum surged as the clock ticked down, and with under a minute left in the half, Su Jiahong struck again, converting a lightning-fast counterattack to double China's lead.

The second half began with renewed intensity. Australia pulled one back with 6 minutes and 19 seconds remaining, exploiting a defensive lapse to reduce the deficit. However, China's defense refused to buckle. In the dying moments, Zou Yinglan sealed the victory with a clinical finish, netting her team's third goal and cementing a triumphant 3-1 win.

The tournament features 12 teams competing for three coveted spots at the inaugural FIFA Women's Futsal World Cup in the Philippines later this year. The hosts will next face Chinese Taipei on Thursday.