The AFC Women’s Asian Cup is more than just a competition for continental glory — it’s a global stage where the sport’s next generation announces itself to the world. For decades, Asia has produced phenomenal talent, from early legends like Homare Sawa and Wang Liping to modern stars like Saki Kumagai and Wang Shuang. But as the 2026 edition in Australia approaches (March 1–21), a new crop of emerging footballers — teenagers, young internationals and breakout performers — are poised to shape the tournament’s narrative. With continental qualification concluded and squads named, analysts, scouts, and fans alike are excited about a wave of rising players who could elevate their nations and influence the future of the women’s game. In this deep dive — extending beyond star veterans and headline names — we focus on the rising talents, their stories, skills, roles, and why the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup may be their breakout moment on Asia’s grandest stage. Choe Il-son (North Korea) — The Ne...
After the away victory, the Hammers will probably feel more secure, but they now have a significant test when Liverpool visits them this weekend.
With eight points from their past four league games, West Ham has made great progress in recent weeks.
To win anything against the Reds, who have been unbeatable this season, they will need to put on a spectacular display.
Team Lopetegui will pick vs Liverpool
In midweek, West Ham defeated Southampton, but it cost them dearly. After suffering a severe head injury in a collision with Nathan Wood, Lukasz Fabianski was taken away on a stretcher.
Prior to the second half, Carlos Soler and Max Kilman were both hurt, and it is uncertain if they will be able to return in time to play the Reds.
In the meantime, Tomas Soucek and Guido Rodriguez will serve suspensions following their fifth yellow cards of the season.
Following his involvement in a horrific vehicle accident earlier this month, Michail Antonio has been sidelined for at least a year.
Lucas Paqueta will join Lopetegui, though, following his suspension against Southampton.
With Emerson and Aaron Wan-Bissaka playing on the flanks, the Spanish manager is anticipated to start Konstantinos Mavropanos and Jean Clair-Todibo in the center of defense.
It's likely that Edson Alvarez will play defensive midfield. The attack should be led by Niclas Fullkrug, with Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen acting as wide attackers.
Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Todibo, Emerson, Alvarez, Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus, Summerville, and Fullkrug are the predicted starting lineup.
The 39-year-old was later verified by Lopetegui to be awake and conscious in the locker room, but it seems improbable that he will play in Sunday's home match.
Alphonse Areola will move back to the side to fill in between the sticks while Fabianski is away.
Alphonse Areola will move back to the side to fill in between the sticks while Fabianski is away.
Prior to the second half, Carlos Soler and Max Kilman were both hurt, and it is uncertain if they will be able to return in time to play the Reds.
In the meantime, Tomas Soucek and Guido Rodriguez will serve suspensions following their fifth yellow cards of the season.
Following his involvement in a horrific vehicle accident earlier this month, Michail Antonio has been sidelined for at least a year.
Lucas Paqueta will join Lopetegui, though, following his suspension against Southampton.
With Emerson and Aaron Wan-Bissaka playing on the flanks, the Spanish manager is anticipated to start Konstantinos Mavropanos and Jean Clair-Todibo in the center of defense.
It's likely that Edson Alvarez will play defensive midfield. The attack should be led by Niclas Fullkrug, with Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen acting as wide attackers.
Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Todibo, Emerson, Alvarez, Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus, Summerville, and Fullkrug are the predicted starting lineup.
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