Matildas drawn in Group A alongside World Champions Japan

The Matildas have been drawn in Group A alongside Japan, host nation Vietnam and Jordan for the 2014 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

“I think it is a very exciting group with the holders of the Asian cup, the world champions and the host all in one group,” said Matildas coach Hesterine de Reus.

The Matildas will take on World Champions Japan in their opening group match before facing Vietnam and Jordan.

“I'm happy with having Japan first as the strongest team so we will be totally fit and ready for the start of the tournament.

“After that we have two teams which, on paper, we are the better side, but at the top level easy matches do not exist anymore and they will not be easy opponents.”

Australia and Japan have clashed on 20 occasions with Japan edging the head to head eight wins to five.  Australia has a defeated Vietnam in both their meetings and are yet to take on Jordan.

Group B consists of China, South Korea, Myanmar and Thailand.

The top two nations from each group will advance to the semi finals and, importantly, secure a berth in the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup with the fifth team also qualifying for Canada.

The 2014 Asian Cup will be held for the second time in Vietnam from 14 - 25 May 2014.