On May 6, the 2025 AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup kicked off in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Host nation China secured a winning start by defeating Australia 3–1.

This year's tournament features 12 teams. China, as host, is in Group A alongside Australia, Chinese Taipei, and Uzbekistan.

At the beginning of the match, both teams were somewhat slow to settle and made several errors. As the game progressed, China executed a neat passing move near the Australian goal, and team captain Zhan Huimin scored the opening goal, making it 1–0. Near the end of the first half, Su Jiahong made a breakthrough along the left wing. Despite Australia’s full defensive effort, she managed to find the net, giving China a 2–0 lead at halftime.

In the second half, Australia ramped up their offensive efforts, but China’s goalkeeper made multiple crucial saves. The Australian team eventually found a breakthrough when substitute Karys Stahr scored. However, China quickly responded with another goal from Zou Yinglan, sealing the score at 3–1.

Australia’s head coach, Miles Downie, said his team created good chances but failed to capitalize: “We’re a new team, but China was clearly the stronger side.”

China’s head coach, Hu Jie, was very pleased with his players’ performance: “We were well-prepared for this match. I’m very grateful for the players’ confidence and readiness — they did a fantastic job.”

Looking ahead to the next two group matches, Hu added: “We’re not yet a fully mature team. No matter who we face, we’ll fight for every match.”

In the other Group A game played that day, Chinese Taipei defeated Uzbekistan 6–1.

The group stage of the tournament will run for six matchdays, with the quarterfinals beginning on May 13 and the final rankings to be decided on May 17. The top three teams from this Asian Cup will qualify for the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup in 2025.