The escalating tensions in the Middle East have compelled football authorities to relocate the Women’s Asian Cup qualifying matches originally scheduled to begin next week in Jordan. On Friday, officials from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced that the qualifiers would now be held in Qatar due to the “ongoing situation” in the region.
This decision comes amid a sharp escalation in hostilities between Israel and Iran, with both nations intensifying air strikes against each other. The conflict has raised concerns about a broader regional involvement, including the potential engagement of the United States.
The AFC confirmed that the Group A matches, initially planned for June 23 to July 5 in Amman, Jordan’s capital, will now take place from July 7 to 19 in Qatar. “More details on the venue and match timings will be confirmed in due course,” the AFC stated.
Group A features Jordan, Singapore, Iran, Lebanon, and Bhutan competing for a place in the Women’s Asian Cup, which is set to take place in Australia in March 2026. The Football Association of Singapore also cited “logistical concerns raised by the participating teams” as a factor in the relocation.
There are eight qualifying groups in total, with the winner of each group securing a spot at the 2026 tournament. Meanwhile, the host nation Australia, along with South Korea, Japan, and defending champions China, have already qualified.
The ongoing geopolitical instability underscores the challenges of organizing international sporting events in volatile regions, but the AFC and participating nations remain committed to ensuring the qualifiers proceed safely and fairly.
