How to Watch China vs Australia AFC Women's Asian Cup Semi-Final: Tara Rushton Presents on 10 and ABC Coverage

Match date: 17 March 2026

How to Watch China vs Australia AFC Women's Asian Cup Semi-Final: Tara Rushton Presents on 10 and ABC Coverage

The thrilling semi-final clash between China and Australia in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 takes place today at 10:00 UK time from Perth Stadium (also known as Optus Stadium), pitting the Matildas against a determined Chinese side in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter[1][2]. While UK fans won't find this on familiar channels like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports or TNT Sports, Australian broadcasters are delivering top-tier coverage, with Tara Rushton leading the presentation on 10 Streaming and Paramount+ AUS, alongside ABC Sport offering alternative viewing options[1].

Australia, the tournament hosts and group stage toppers after draws like their 3-3 thriller with South Korea, face China who advanced with wins over Bangladesh and North Korea[1]. The winners secure a spot in the final on 21 March at Stadium Australia in Sydney, potentially facing South Korea or Japan from the other semi-final[1][3]. UK viewers can stream via 10 Streaming (geo-restricted) or catch highlights later, making this a must-watch for Matildas supporters across the globe.

Leading the 10 Network Australia coverage is seasoned presenter Tara Rushton, a familiar face in Australian sports broadcasting with over a decade anchoring football, netball and rugby league for Network 10. Rushton, who has covered multiple Matildas campaigns including their World Cup runs, brings her sharp insights and engaging style to this semi-final, ensuring fans get the full build-up from Perth Stadium[1]. Joining her in the studio are pundits Elise Kellond-Knight, a former Matildas midfielder with 116 caps who retired in 2021 after battling injury and now thrives as an analyst; Ashleigh Sykes, the prolific Canberra United striker and five-time A-League Women golden boot winner known for her clinical finishing; and Chloe Logarzo, the dynamic playmaker who starred in Australia's 2019 World Cup quarter-final run before overcoming health challenges to return[1]. Their combined expertise promises deep tactical breakdowns on how Australia can exploit China's defence.

On the ground, reporter Nalin Mastou will deliver live updates from pitchside, capturing the electric atmosphere at Perth Stadium where the Matildas boast a strong home record[1][2]. For those preferring ABC Sport, the coverage features main commentator Clint Wheeldon, a veteran voice in women's football with years calling A-League and international matches, partnered by co-commentator Collette Gardiner, ex-Matildas defender whose 1996 Asian Cup triumph adds authentic perspective. Rachel Stowers handles reporting duties, providing on-site analysis[1].

This semi-final at 9 p.m. AEDT (6 p.m. AWST local time) underscores Australia's hosting prowess for the AFC Women's Asian Cup, staged across venues like Perth Rectangular Stadium, Western Sydney Stadium and Gold Coast Stadium from 1-21 March[4]. The Matildas, automatic qualifiers as 2022 champions, topped Group A with a 1-0 win over Philippines, setting up knockout triumphs en route here[1]. China, Asian powerhouses with nine titles, edged past North Korea 2-1 in groups, aiming to reclaim glory[1]. Post-match play-ins for World Cup spots follow, with Uzbekistan vs Philippines and Chinese Taipei vs North Korea on 19 March[1].

Fans can follow the tournament's progress via official channels. For more on the Matildas' history, check their Wikipedia page detailing World Cup exploits and domestic dominance. With odds favouring Australia at -150 and over/under 2.5 goals, expect goals in this heavyweight bout[2]. Whether streaming on Paramount+ AUS (subscription/geo-restricted) or Ten Network, British fans should set alarms for this pivotal match defining Asia's top women's team.

As the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 nears its climax, this China vs Australia showdown captures the tournament's intensity, blending host nation passion with continental rivalry. Tune in to see if the Matildas march on under the Perth lights.

Article generated: 17 March 2026, 10:01 GMT