Asian Games Women's Football Group Stage: China Women beats Hong Kong

China Women's National Football Team opened their 2026 Asian Games campaign with a dominant 5-1 victory over Hong Kong, China in Group G at the Nagaragawa Stadium on Monday evening.

China took the lead in the 14th minute when Wang Shuang assisted Chen Qiaozhu, who scored from outside the box. However, in the 31st minute, a defensive mix-up allowed Hong Kong, China to equalize. Si Yu's attempted clearance turned into an unintended assist, and goalkeeper Xiao Zitong rushed out but failed to clear. Hong Kong's Zhang Weiqi headed the ball past the goalkeeper and tapped into an empty net, making it 1-1.

The goal was historic — it was the first time Hong Kong, China Women's team had ever scored against China Women. In their previous 10 meetings, China had won all matches, scoring 80 goals without conceding.

In the 38th minute, Zhang Rui delivered a corner and Si Yu headed home to make amends, putting China back in front 2-1. The first half ended with China leading 2-1.

In the second half, Wang Shuang assisted Wang Yanwen before scoring twice herself to complete her brace. In the 79th minute, Liu Jing assisted and Wang Shuang scored from close range to make it 4-1. In the 89th minute, Wang Shuang struck again from inside the box to seal the 5-1 victory.

Wang Shuang was the standout performer with two goals and two assists. Chen Qiaozhu, Wang Yanwen, and Si Yu each scored one goal.

Despite the heavy defeat, Hong Kong, China's Zhang Weiqi made history with her goal, reflecting the team's recent progress. Since 2025, Hong Kong, China Women have recorded 8 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses in 12 matches, with four overseas-based players in the squad: Gao Pailing, Lu Kaiqing, Chen Songwen, and Zeng Baitong.

China Women will face Uzbekistan Women on September 17 at 13:00. The 2026 Asian Games women's football tournament features 12 teams divided into three groups. The top two from each group and the two best third-placed teams advance to the quarter-finals.