DIFFICULT PASSAGE FOR HOSTS VIETNAM

HO CHI MINH CITY (18 April 2008) – Hosts Vietnam were handed a tough draw when they were grouped with eight-time winners China and two-time winners DPR Korea in Group A of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2008.

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2008 will be staged on 28 May to 8 June.

Defending champions China, who beat Australia 4-2 on penalties in the last final in Adelaide, will be eyeing another shot at glory while DPR Korea would be aiming to emulate their success in the 2001 and 2003 editions.

Vietnam, who made it to the tournament proper after winning their qualifying group following wins over Chinese Taipei, Myanmar and Iran, would also face a tough challenge from SEA Games champions Thailand.

Japan, who defeated fancied China, DPR Korea and Korea Republic to clinch the East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) Championship title this year, could pose a serious threat to Australia in Group B.

The group also includes Korea Republic and Chinese Taipei.

The top two teams from each group will make it to the semi-finals.

GROUPINGS

GROUP A: China, DPR Korea, THAILAND, VIETNAM

GROUP B: Australia, Japan, Korea Republic, Chinese Taipei