Two-time defending champions Japan have clinched the top spot in Group C of the Women's Asian Cup on goal difference despite being held to a 1-1 draw by second-placed South Korea.

Forward Roki Ueki gave Japan the dream start on Thursday with a goal in the first minute - the quickest at the competition - as she charged into the box and found the bottom left corner with a fine finish.

South Korea, putting up an improved performance in the second half, found a late equaliser through substitute Seo Ji-youn in the 85th minute after a scramble in the box.

In the quarter-final line-up, with all four matches to be played on Sunday, Japan will face Thailand, who went through despite having lost their group B clash 2-1 to Australia.

The Thais advanced to the last-eight on account of finishing among the best third-placed teams alongside Vietnam.

Vietnam, who came from behind twice to hold Myanmar to a 2-2 draw in Navi Mumbai, will take on Group A winners China in the last eight, while the Philippines will face Taiwan, who finished second in Group A.

Australia, who finished their group with a maximum nine points, will play the South Koreans in Pune on Sunday.

The competition is doubling up as Asia's qualifier for next year's Women's World Cup, with the continent awarded five guaranteed spots at the finals in Australia and New Zealand.

Australia qualify for the World Cup as co-hosts while two other Asian nations will feature in an intercontinental play-off round.