EAFF E-1 Football Championship. Women
The EAFF E-1 Football Championship for Women is a premier regional tournament organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), featuring top women's national teams from East Asia, including Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan, and others. It highlights the surging popularity of women's soccer in Asia, where Japan and China dominate with robust development programs.
History and foundation
Launched in 1991 as the EAFF Women's Championship, Japan claimed the inaugural title and has since won seven, including triumphs in 2019 and 2022. China has four victories, last in the men's edition, but trails in women's. A highlight: North Korea's stunning 2015 final run showcased explosive attacks. Interrupted by politics and pandemics, it rebounded, with Japan beating China 2-0 in the 2022 final.
Tournament format
The format typically involves 4-6 teams in a group stage round-robin, with top two advancing to the final. Held biennially, often as a 'final round' after qualifiers. In 2022, Taiwan hosted Japan, China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong; winners earn AFC Asian Cup points.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.5-3, emphasizing skill and pace. Japan's top scorers: Yui Homma (7 goals), Asako Tanaka. Legends include Aimi Hanai and Homare Sawa. China's Wang Shuang (10+ AFC goals). Standouts: North Korea's Jo Sol Ok's dribbling, Taiwan's Su Yunying. It nurtures global stars like Junko Nagashima. (1923 chars)