China coach tells players to stay ‘calm’ in Taiwan clash at Asian Cup | Football News
China Faces Taiwan in Tense Women’s Asian Cup Quarterfinal
Published: March 13, 2026
China’s coach Ante Milicic has called on his players to maintain composure and confidence in their upcoming Women’s Asian Cup quarterfinal against Taiwan, a match set against a backdrop of political tension. The reigning champions aim to secure a record-extending tenth continental title and will face a Taiwanese team that has shown significant improvement throughout the tournament.
In the group stage, Taiwan struggled against heavily favored Japan but managed to put on a commendable performance, losing 2-0. Milicic acknowledged this, stating, “They gave Japan a very difficult game and then went on to win their next two matches, so we know this will be a tough proposition.” The match will take place in Perth.
Milicic emphasized the need for a strong execution of their game plan: “If we follow a clear process, remain calm, and take it one game at a time, we can be successful and hopefully go further in the tournament.”
Similar to China, Taiwan has garnered substantial support during the tournament held in Australia, though the experience has not been without its controversies. In their last match against India in Sydney, former Taiwan coach Chen Kuei-jen was ejected for leading a chant of “Taiwan Jiayu,” or “Go Taiwan.” His removal prompted Taiwan’s foreign ministry to file a protest with the Asian Football Confederation, citing “unequal treatment.”
Taiwan competes internationally under the name “Chinese Taipei,” a nomenclature established as part of a political agreement with China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.
Taiwan coach Prasobchoke Chokemor shifted focus to the match, stating, “We can say we did well against Japan, holding them to a 0-0 draw in the first half. It will be a different game tactically, but we are confident we can compete against top-level players if we stay focused on ourselves and fight as a team.”
In addition to a place in the semifinals, the match is crucial for both teams as the top six finishers will qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
