The Matildas will start their 2018 AFC Women's World Cup  campaign against Korea Republic in Amman, Jordan.

This follows Australian being drawn in a competitive Group B alongside defending Asian Cup champions Japan, Korea Republic and Vietnam.

“Obviously a very tough draw but one that we embrace and look forward to the challenge of,” said head coach Alen Stajcic Stajcic.

“Having a group like this means there are no easy matches and no easy moments.

Silver medallists from the 2014 edition, Australia will be looking to capture their second continental title in the first Asian Cup to be held in West Asia.

https://twitter.com/TheWomensGame/status/939458218123595776

Group A has seen hosts Jordan joined by 2015 Women's World Cup participants China and Thailand and returnees to the Asian Cup, the Philippines.

The top two nations from Group B will advance to the semi finals of the tournament with the top five nations from the tournament qualifying for the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup in France.

“We have to ensure that we hit the ground running to give ourselves the best possible chance of reaching the knockout rounds.”

The matches of the tournament will be held at Amman International Stadium and King Abdullah II Stadium in Amman, Jordan.

Australia's preparations for the AFC Women's Asian Cup will include four matches at the 2018 Algarve Cup where the Matildas will face Korea Republic as well as Norway and Portugal.

The 2018 AFC Women's Asian Cup will run from 5 - 21 April 2018.

2018 AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2018 - Groups

Group A: Jordan (50), China PR (13), Thailand (29), Philippines (70)

Group B: Japan (8), Australia (6), Korea Republic (15), Vietnam (31)