China vows to give everything against Australia in Women's Asian Cup semis

Defending champion China will give everything it has in Tuesday night's AFC Women's Asian Cup semifinal against host Australia, head coach Ante Milicic said on Monday.

Ante Milicic, head coach of the Chinese national women's football team, speaks during Team China's press conference of Women's Asian Cup at Perth Stadium in Perth, Australia, March 16, 2026. (Photo by Zhou Dan/Xinhua)

"We know it's a bit difficult, but we'll definitely enjoy it, and we'll have a crack tomorrow night for sure," he told the pre-match press conference on Monday morning.

Milicic said the team was still in the recovery and preparation phase following its quarterfinal win over Chinese Taipei. China will train on Monday afternoon as it continues its build-up to the semifinal.

Milicic, who coached the Australian women's team on an interim basis from 2019 to 2020, said his first match in charge of China was against Australia, giving him prior experience of facing both a former team and his home country.

"I'm honored that I've had the opportunity to coach both national teams," he said. "I have great memories from my time there, but ultimately, I'm enjoying this journey now with China. It's been so enjoyable for me. I'm a better coach, better person."

He said he was looking forward to the occasion, especially the chance to lead China against Australia on home soil in a semifinal.

"That's a dream not only for myself, you have to understand, there are also four other Australians part of my staff that have been working very hard on this journey, and we're preparing the team as best we can," he added.

Australia head coach Joe Montemurro said at Monday's press conference that his side had not been brave enough in possession.

"My way of thinking is with the ball," he said.

"We feel that we're probably playing a team that is very well structured, very well organized," he said, adding that the key for Australia would be to understand the right moments on the ball and make good decisions.

Australia midfielder Emily van Egmond said China would provide a stern test.

"Every single time we face China, whether it's a friendly match or in a tournament, it's always been a really good game. They're a tough opponent," she said.