The FFA has confirmed that the Matildas and the Socceroos have accepted an invitation to participate in the East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) East Asia Cup 2013, with the qualifying tournaments to be held from 20-24 November 2012.
EastAsiaCup
Matildas to look to qualify for 2013 East Asia Cup | Getty

The EAFF East Asia Cup is a four-team tournament for Men & Women which is held every four years rotating between Japan, Korea Republic & China PR as the host nation.

The women's field is a particularly strong one with top sides in Asian women's football, including Japan, Korea Republic, DPR Korea and China, all involved. 

"The East Asian championship is a great opportunity for Australian football," said FFA CEO Ben Buckley.

"Emerging Socceroos and Matildas will get the chance to gain valuable international experience, especially those who play in the A-League & W-League.

For the 2013 tournament to be held in Seoul, Korea Republic (from 20-28 July 2013), the hosts, Japan, DPR Korea plus one team from the Round 2 Qualifying Tournament will be the participants. 

The qualifying tournament, held from 20 – 24 November, takes place during an awkward time for the W-League will be in full swing.  However, considering the calibre of competition to be met in the finals, it presents another opportunity for Matildas coach Tom Sermanni to continue his blooding of new players ahead of the 2014 Asian Cup and 2015 World Cup. 

The qualifiers for the Women’s EAFF East Asia Cup 2013 will be held in Shenzhen, China PR and will involve teams from Australia, China PR, Chinese-Taipei and Hong Kong.

“There may be players away on international duty during the Westfield W-League season in November," said Buckley.   

"But that's part and parcel of the world game. We'll make sure that is carefully managed.” 

Established in 2005, and only it's it fourth edition, past winners of the women's tournament include Japan (twice) and Korea Republic.