Watch South Korea v Japan AFC Women's Asian Cup Semi-Final: Ned Hall Calls the Action on ABC Sport

Match date: 18 March 2026

Watch South Korea v Japan AFC Women's Asian Cup Semi-Final: Ned Hall Calls the Action on ABC Sport

Football fans in the UK eager to catch the thrilling South Korea v Japan semi-final at the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup can tune into ABC Sport (Australia) or the official YouTube: AFC Asian Cup channel this Wednesday, 18 March 2026, at 09:00 UK time. Hosted Down Under with Australia as the host nation, this blockbuster clash at Stadium Australia in Sydney promises high drama as the two East Asian powerhouses battle for a spot in the final against holders China or surprise package Australia.

While UK viewers might hope for coverage on familiar channels like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports or TNT Sports, no British broadcasters are listed for this fixture. Instead, the match will be live on ABC Sport, Australia's public broadcaster renowned for its comprehensive football coverage, particularly women's internationals. Leading the commentary team is the experienced Ned Hall, a staple voice in Australian sports broadcasting. Hall has built a reputation over two decades calling A-League matches, Matildas games and major tournaments for ABC and Fox Sports, bringing his insightful analysis and passionate delivery to this Asia Cup showdown.

Joining Hall in the booth are co-commentators Amy Harrison and Alicia Ferguson, both former Matildas stalwarts who transitioned seamlessly into punditry. Amy Harrison, a midfield dynamo with over 50 caps for Australia, retired in 2015 and now excels as an analyst, known for her tactical breakdowns on shows like The World Game. Meanwhile, Alicia Ferguson, a versatile forward who represented the Matildas at the 2007 World Cup, has been a familiar face on ABC panels since hanging up her boots, offering candid views on player development and Asian football's rise. Their expertise will enrich the coverage of this semi-final, where South Korea, the 2022 runners-up, face defending champions Japan.

The tournament, running from 1 to 21 March 2026 across Sydney, Perth and the Gold Coast, marks the 21st edition of Asia's premier women's international competition and a key qualifier pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. South Korea topped Group A after a perfect run including a 3-3 thriller with hosts Australia, while Japan dominated Group C with victories over Chinese Taipei and Vietnam. Their quarter-final form was ominous: South Korea thrashed their opponents 6-0 in Sydney, showcasing the attacking flair under new coach Shin, appointed ahead of the qualifiers.

This semi-final follows Australia's narrow 2-1 win over China on 17 March at Optus Stadium, setting up a potential final blockbuster on 21 March at Stadium Australia. For UK fans, the YouTube: AFC Asian Cup stream offers a free, global world feed option, ideal for catching every goal and save from 09:00 GMT. Expect intense rivalry – Japan, with their technical prowess and two-time world champions pedigree from 2011, meet a hungry South Korea side blending youth and experience.

Background on the teams adds context: South Korea qualified as 2022 runners-up, finishing second behind China after a stellar campaign. Japan, perennial contenders, breezed through groups and quarters. The knockout play-ins on 19 March, including Uzbekistan v Philippines and Chinese Taipei v North Korea at Gold Coast's Cbus Super Stadium, will determine additional World Cup spots, heightening the stakes across the tournament.

Don't miss Ned Hall, Amy Harrison and Alicia Ferguson guiding viewers through what could be a goal-fest under Sydney's lights. For more on the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, check the official details. Whether streaming on YouTube or accessing ABC Sport via VPN, this is unmissable viewing for British fans supporting women's football's global ascent.

With the final looming and World Cup implications, South Korea v Japan encapsulates Asia's depth. Tune in early – kick-off at 09:00 UK time aligns perfectly for morning coffee and continental action.

Article generated: 17 March 2026, 21:01 GMT