The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have announced the $1 million (USD) funding boost to its five nations competing in the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have announced the $1 million (USD) funding boost to its five nations competing in the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Revealed earlier this week at the Women’s Asian Cup 2014 Workshop, the AFC will provide Japan, Australia, China, Korea Republic and Thailand with USD$200,000 each for their preparations for Canada 2015.
The commitment mirrors similar support offered to the AFC men's teams who participated in Brazil 2014.
"I am delighted to see the backing of the confederation for the comprehensive development of football at all levels,” said AFC Vice President and AFC Women’s Committee Chairman Moya Dodd in announcing the funding.
With the Top 4 Asian Cup 2014 place getters in ranking in the FIFA top 20 and Thailand in the top 30, the AFC is one of the strongest confederations in the world and Dodd believes the teams can perform well at the 2015 tournament.
“The AFC Women’s Asian Cup Vietnam 2014 should give us confidence that we have a very strong contingent going to the Women’s World Cup next year,” she continued.
“Asia is currently the world champion, but have no doubt that every other confederation wants to take that crown.”
The grant revelation for the World Cup bound nations was just one part of an Asian Cup workshop which saw Technical Directors and coaches from AFC Member Associations participating over 3 days to discuss the "lessons learnt" from the 2014 tournament.
Speakers included Nadeshiko coach Norio Sasaki, newly appointed Matildas coach Alen Stajcic, members of the Technical Study Group consisting of Asako Takakura, Jessie Fan, and Jose Carpio and former England head coach Hope Powell.
As well as discussing the key elements of the tournament, the workshop looked to examine how women's football in Asia could continue to grow, particularly in West and South East Asia.
“The AFC's Member Associations represent more than half the world’s population; it follows therefore that you represent more than half of the world’s women," continued Dodd.
“They need you to create the opportunities and pathways that will give them access to the best game in the world.”
“The women’s game is alive here in Asia, and one can sense the anticipation for and expectations of women’s football and its development in this part of the world.”
Related Articles

Glory have eyes on the prize after hot six-match run

Glory to use priceless advantage in ALW finals push
