Watch Australia v Philippines AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026: Teo Pellizzeri Calls the Action on 10 Play and YouTube

The highly anticipated opening clash of the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™ pits tournament favourites Australia, the CommBank Matildas, against a determined Philippines side at Optus Stadium, kicking off at 09:00 UK time on 1 March 2026. UK fans eager to catch this Group A showdown can tune into the world feed via YouTube's AFC Asian Cup channel or 10 Play (geo-restricted), where veteran commentator Teo Pellizzeri leads the coverage alongside co-commentator Alicia Ferguson, delivering expert insights from Down Under[2][4].

As hosts of this 21st edition of Asia's premier women's international tournament, selected by the AFC on 15 May 2024, Australia enter as strong contenders, building on their runner-up finish in 2006 and co-hosting the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. The Matildas previously dominated the Philippines 4-0 in their 2022 Asian Cup encounter, with stars like Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler shining, but the Filipinos, semi-finalists that year, promise a fired-up challenge under coach Angela McDaniel[1][2][3].

For comprehensive Australian broadcasts, 10 Streaming and Paramount+ AUS (subscription/geo-restricted) feature presenter Tara Rushton, a seasoned Network 10 host known for her work on Matildas matches and women's football coverage, alongside co-presenter Nalin Mastou. Commentary duties split between Teo Pellizzeri and Grace Gill, with co-commentators Alicia Ferguson and Andy Harper providing on-pitch analysis. The pundit panel boasts Matildas legends: Elise Kellond-Knight, a 100-cap midfielder who won Olympic bronze in 2021; Tameka Yallop, a versatile forward with over 100 appearances and multiple W-League titles; and Chloe Logarzo, the dynamic playmaker central to Australia's 2019 World Cup semi-final run[6].

Teo Pellizzeri, one of Australia's most respected football voices, brings decades of experience from calling A-League Men's and Women's matches, Socceroos internationals, and major tournaments for Network 10 and Paramount+. His passionate delivery has made him a staple for Matildas fans, often paired with former players for tactical depth. Alicia Ferguson, a ex-Matildas defender with 26 caps, transitioned seamlessly into co-commentary, offering insider knowledge from her playing days in the 1990s and early 2000s[6].

On ABC Sport in Australia, Clint Wheeldon handles main commentary with co-commentator Collette Gardiner, a pioneering Matildas striker from the tournament's early years, and reporter Rachel Stower providing pitch-side updates. This free-to-air option underscores the ABC's long-standing commitment to women's football in Australia.

UK viewers without VPN access to geo-restricted services can rely on the official YouTube: AFC Asian Cup world feed, ensuring global accessibility for this marquee fixture. The stream captures the electric atmosphere at Optus Stadium, where emerging Australian talent gives captain Sam Kerr confidence in defending the hosts' title aspirations[3][5].

Relive past drama via Football Australia's YouTube highlights of the 2022 clash, showcasing Australia's attacking prowess. With Philippines vowing to stand tall, this match could set the tone for Group A, where both sides aim to advance from a pool also featuring other qualifiers[1][2].

The AFC Women's Asian Cup remains a crucial qualifier pathway, blending fierce competition with rising stars. For British audiences, following the Matildas' journey offers a glimpse into Asia-Pacific women's football's growth, especially with no native ITV, BBC, Sky or TNT coverage noted. Expect tactical battles, with Australia's depth tested by the Philippines' resilience. Don't miss Teo Pellizzeri's iconic calls as the Matildas launch their campaign.

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Article generated: 1 March 2026, 09:00 GMT