Steel Roses' World Cup Hopes Hinge on Asian Cup Performance

0:00From Sydney, this is your March 4th update. China's Women's National Football Team, known as the Steel Roses, has a storied history of success that the men have never matched. They've reached two Women's World Cup finals and won multiple Asian cups, dominating the region in the 1990s. Right now, they're competing in the Women's AFC Asian Cup in Australia, ranked 4th in Asia and 17th globally. They kicked off with a solid two-nothing win over Bangladesh and remained favorites to claim the title again. Despite their achievements, the team struggles for consistent fan support back home. Attention spikes only during big wins, or when fans poke fun at the men's team, which has never advanced past the group stage in a World Cup. Experts note this pattern has persisted for years, with the women celebrated mainly in victory. Reactions highlight a stark contrast in popularity. In China, professional matches draw modest crowds, often around 2,000 spectators, mostly family and students. Players and researchers point out high respect for the team, but low ongoing interest.

1:04Meanwhile, in places like Australia, games sell out quickly thanks to strong investment and enthusiasm. China has boosted women's football with school programs since 2015, and corporate pledges like 1 billion yuan from Alipay over 10 years. Still, funding lags far behind the men's league, where top salaries once hit 10 million yuan annually. The global game has grown faster and more physical, challenging China's experienced, but aging squad. As the tournament continues, pressure mounts on head coach Ante Milicic after recent heavy losses. A strong run to the semi-finals could secure a 2027 World Cup qualification and steady support. Experts say sustained investment is key to bridging the gap and building lasting crowds. This story is made possible by our sponsor. Read the episode description. Headphones in the pillow, simple idea, surprisingly addictive.