Matildas set to defend their Asian Cup title in Vietnam | (Credit: Paul Lau) Matildas set to defend their Asian Cup title in Vietnam | (Credit: Paul Lau)

Vietnam have been announced as the hosts of the 2014 AFC Women's Asian Cup.  The 18th edition of the tournament will take place from 14 - 25 May 2014 in Ho Chi Minh City.

The 12 day tournament will see the Matildas look to defend their title with stiff opposition from World Champions Japan, former powerhouse China and rising countries Korea Republic.

Hosts Vietnam will also participate in the tournament after their national team booked a place in the finals thanks to  finishing top of Group C in the recent qualifiers. Thailand and Myanmar have also qualified after topping their groups while DPR Korea will not participate following a ban for drug doping after the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup.

The Asian Cup doubles as qualifer for the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada with the AFC allocated five positions for the tournament.

This will be the second time the Asian Cup will be hosted by Vietnam.