Osaka: Australia and China booked their places for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games on Monday after securing the top two spots at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Rio 2016 Asian Qualifiers Final Round in Osaka, Japan.
AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa offered his congratulations to the two teams: “I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Australia and China for their outstanding performances throughout the tournament. Representing Asia is an honour and I am confident that both Australia and China will do Asia proud.
“We have seen some breathtaking goals and captivating matches at the Asian qualifiers of Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Rio 2016. The quality on display exemplifies Asia’s position as global force in women’s game. Indeed, women’s football in Asia has a bright future, and we can expect more proud moments for Asian football in Rio, and beyond."
The undefeated Matildas currently occupy first place, securing their first appearance at the Olympic Games since the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, after defeating DPR Korea 2-1.
China, meanwhile, overcame a resilient Korea Republic side 1-0 at the Nagai Stadium to claim the coveted berth for the global sporting spectacle in Brazil.
The two sides will now face each other for the top spot on Wednesday.
The Olympic Football Tournament Rio 2016 starts on August 3, 2016, with the final taking place on August 20. Australia and China join the men’s teams, AFC U23 Championship winners Japan, runners-up Korea Republic and third placed Iraq to make up Asia’s representation at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.
The official draw for both the men’s and women’s Olympic Football Tournaments Rio 2016 will take place on April 14 at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Source: the-afc.com