The official draw for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup took place in Sydney on July 29, 2025, placing Iran into Group A with Australia, South Korea and the Philippines—a bracket widely regarded as one of the tournament’s toughest.

Marzieh Jafari emphasized that the calibre of opponents should not intimidate her squad. “We must not fear the big names; rather, we should welcome these contests,” she said. “Football is a game of courageous confrontation, and true progress happens when a team faces the best without hesitation”.

Jafari added that matches against top-ranked Asian sides are exactly what Iranian women’s football needs to elevate its standards. “If we aspire to be counted among Asia’s elite, we must learn now how to stand up, resist, play and fight against the continent’s leading teams,” she noted. “Playing Australia, South Korea or the Philippines should not trigger retreat but drive us to improve and prove that Iran is no easy opponent”.

With eight months remaining until the tournament kicks off in March 2026, the coach outlined a rigorous preparation plan. “This time is precious: targeted camps, high-level friendlies, structured technical work and mental training will ensure our performance surpasses past benchmarks,” Jafari said. “We have moved beyond our qualifiers in Jordan and are on the path to building a brave, high-quality team”.

She described this group as a long-term stepping stone, not a roadblock. “Confronting Asia’s best is part of our strategic vision. These matches are not threats but real opportunities to test ourselves and grow,” Jafari explained.

On scouting the opposition, the head coach noted her technical familiarity with Australia and the Philippines, along with knowledge of South Korea’s club system. “Combined with our players’ mental and physical readiness, this insight will help us enter the field with confidence and courage,” she said. “We have come to fight, not to surrender. We’re here to show that Iranian women’s football is serious and on the rise”.

In closing, Jafari stressed that confidence, perseverance and mental strength are Iran’s greatest assets. “We must not fear playing big teams; we should view these challenges as chances to become greater.