AFC U23 Asian Cup
The action promises to be thrilling, with matches to be played across 11 groups as the teams bid to join hosts Saudi Arabia at the Finals on January 7-25, 2026.
The-AFC.com tells you all you need to know about the Qualifiers.
The numbers game
The 11 group winners and four best second-placed will join Saudi Arabia at the Finals, meaning fans can expect no-holds barred battles with berths decided by the narrowest of margins.
Elite club
Only five nations have lifted the AFC U23 Asian Cup™ trophy since its launch in 2013 – Iraq (2013), Japan (2016, 2024), Uzbekistan (2018), Korea Republic (2020) and Saudi Arabia (2022). No team has ever been able to defend the title.
Vintage Japan
Besides being the only two-time champions, Japan were runners-up once. The likes of Takefusa Kubo, Ritsu Doan and Ao Tanaka are among those who cut their teeth in this competition before becoming Samurai Blue regulars.
Gritty Uzbekistan
If Japan represent efficiency, Uzbekistan symbolise resilience. The 2018 champions are the only side to reach three consecutive finals (2018, 2022 and 2024). They will be determined to not only make it four in a row but also reclaim the title.
Ever present
Korea Republic have not missed a single edition of the Finals since 2013. Their moment arrived in 2020 when they lifted the trophy after a flawless campaign in Thailand.
Hosts with history
Several Qualifiers’ hosts will enter the spotlight with proud records behind them. Jordan were semi-finalists in 2013, Vietnam made headlines by reaching the final in 2018, while Thailand enjoyed home advantage in 2020, making it to the last eight.
Debut dreams
Two nations – Kyrgyz Republic (Group E) and Tajikistan (Group K) - will be vying for history. Neither side have qualified for the Finals but both will have the advantage of hosting their groups this time around.
Teams to watch
Group G in Phnom Penh stands out with former champions Iraq headlining the group. The West Asian side carry history on their side after winning the inaugural edition in 2013. Cambodia, meanwhile, will be aiming to break new ground by qualifying for the first time.
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