Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers Relocated to Qatar Due to Middle East Conflict

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Friday that the Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, originally slated to begin next week in Jordan, have been moved to Qatar. This change is attributed to the “ongoing situation” in the Middle East, where escalating tensions between Israel and Iran have raised serious security concerns.

The conflict has intensified with both nations launching air strikes against each other, prompting fears of wider regional involvement, including the United States. As a result, the AFC decided to shift the Group A matches from Amman, Jordan, to Qatar, rescheduling the games from July 7 to 19.

The AFC’s official statement said, “More details on the venue and match timings will be confirmed in due course.” The Group A teams—Jordan, Singapore, Iran, Lebanon, and Bhutan—are competing for qualification to the Women’s Asian Cup, which will take place in Australia in March 2026.

Singapore’s Football Association echoed the AFC’s concerns, citing the “ongoing situation in the region and logistical concerns raised by the participating teams” as reasons for the relocation.

Eight qualifying groups are competing for spots in the tournament, with only the group winners advancing. Hosts Australia, along with South Korea, Japan, and defending champions China, have already secured their places.

This relocation highlights the impact of geopolitical conflicts on international sports events, with organizers prioritizing the safety and logistical feasibility of the competition.