Milicic steps down as head coach of CHNWNT

The Chinese Football Association (CFA) announced on its official website on the morning of October 23 that Ante Milicic would no longer serve as head coach of the Chinese women’s national team.

The CFA’s statement read:

“Following friendly communication and consultations between both parties, and taking into consideration Mr. Ante Milicic’s personal and family circumstances, the Chinese Football Association has decided that Mr. Milicic will step down as head coach of the Chinese women’s national team. His foreign coaching staff will also depart.

“The Chinese Football Association thanks Mr. Ante Milicic and his coaching staff for their hard work during their tenure with the Chinese women’s national team, and wishes Mr. Milicic and his team members all the best in their future professional and personal lives.

“Moving forward, the CFA will determine the coaching arrangements for the next phase of the women’s national team in light of its preparations and competition schedule. It will continue to advance preparations for the new cycle and the Olympic qualifying campaign.”

Milicic was appointed head coach of China’s women’s national team on May 11, 2024. During his tenure, he led the team at the 2025 EAFF E-1 Football Championship, where China finished as runners-up; the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, where the team reached the semifinals and secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup; and the Nagoya Asian Games, where China finished fourth with a record of three wins, one draw and two losses.

However, China also suffered heavy defeats in several high-profile friendlies under Milicic, including an 8-0 loss to England and a 3-0 defeat to the United States.