The AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup 2025 concluded in dramatic fashion as Japan clinched their first-ever continental title, overcoming Thailand in a thrilling penalty shootout. While the Japanese celebrated their long-awaited triumph, Iran found glory of their own, securing third place and watching young star Maral Tarkaman finish as the tournament’s top scorer.
Saturday’s final day of action opened with the third-place playoff, where Iran faced China in a high-intensity clash. Backed by the brilliance of Maral Tarkaman, the Iranians prevailed 3-1, capping a resilient campaign with a bronze medal and, crucially, a berth at the upcoming FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup. The victory added a new chapter to Iran’s storied futsal history, following their two previous Asian championship titles.
Japan finally finish on top
In the grand finale, Japan and Thailand delivered a classic encounter. A 2-2 draw in regulation was followed by another goal apiece in extra time, sending the match to penalties. There, Japan held their nerve, edging Thailand 3-2 to lift the trophy for the first time, after falling just short in the last two editions.
Japan’s triumph extended beyond the team title. Midfield maestro Sara Ueno, wearing the iconic No. 7 shirt, was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, dethroning Iran’s Farzaneh Karimi, the previous holder of the title. Goalkeeper Nene Inoue added further accolades to Japan’s haul, earning the Best Goalkeeper award. Meanwhile, China was recognized with the Fair Play Award after finishing fourth.
Tarkaman: Iran’s brightest light
Although Iran missed out on the final, 22-year-old Maral Tarkaman ensured her nation remained on the map. With six goals to her name, the dynamic forward secured the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer, stepping into the spotlight once occupied by compatriots like Fatemeh Etedadi and Sara Shirbeigi. Unlike 2015, when the top scorer title was shared between Japan and Malaysia, Tarkaman stood alone atop the scoring charts in 2025.
Her performances were not just statistically impressive—they were emblematic of Iran’s enduring presence in the upper echelons of Asian futsal. In a tournament that saw new champions crowned and former stars eclipsed, Tarkaman’s rise offered a powerful reminder of the depth of talent in Iranian futsal.
As the dust settles on this landmark edition of the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup, Japan celebrates long-awaited supremacy, while Iran looks ahead with pride and promise, led by a new generation hungry to reclaim the throne.
