News

Shaikh Salman congratulates FIFA World Cup 2034 host Saudi Arabia

Thu, 12 Dec, 2024

Shaikh Salman congratulates FIFA World Cup 2034 host Saudi Arabia

Riyadh: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has congratulated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on being confirmed as the host of the FIFA World Cup 2034.

The FIFA Extraordinary Congress convened virtually earlier today and selected Saudi Arabia - the sole bidder for the 25th edition of the global showpiece – by acclamation.

Garcia takes over Qatar helm

Wed, 11 Dec, 2024

Garcia takes over Qatar helm

Doha: Luis Garcia has been appointed head coach of the national team, the Qatar Football Association announced on Wednesday.

Garcia, formerly  Marquez Lopez’s assistant, will take over from the outgoing Spaniard, with his first assignment beginning with the 2024 Gulf Cup.

#AsianQualifiers - Match Predictor: Historic results, Massive wins and more!

Wed, 04 Dec, 2024

#AsianQualifiers - Match Predictor: Historic results, Massive wins and more!

Kuala Lumpur: After crossing the halfway mark of the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ - Road to 26 following the conclusion of Matchdays 5 and 6, we’re all set to bring you up to speed with the Match Predictor action from not only the past two rounds of fixture but also the campaign to date.

But before we get going, don’t forget to sign up for our ‘Free-to-Play’ AFC Asian Qualifiers™ Road to 26 Match Predictor.  
 
You can compete against friends, show off your knowledge and win exclusive prizes along the way. Why wait? Join now: https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/asian_qualifiers/predictor.html    
 
Now, let’s get going on the recap of the latest matchdays. 

#AsianQualifiers - Vote for your Best Goal of MD5 & 6

Fri, 22 Nov, 2024

#AsianQualifiers - Vote for your Best Goal of MD5 & 6

Kuala Lumpur: The third round of the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ - Road to 26 is now past the halfway mark following the conclusion of Matchday Six with several superb goals scored during the latest international window.

From stunners from distance to magnificent free-kicks, fans of Asian football were treated to some fantastic strikes with a combined 49 goals scored across the two Matchdays.

The-AFC.com invites you, the fans, to pick your favourite goal.

#AsianQualifiers - Group takeaways

Wed, 20 Nov, 2024

#AsianQualifiers - Group takeaways

Kuala Lumpur: The conclusion of Matchday Six means the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 goes on a hiatus before returning in March, 2025.

As the players either return to their clubs or take a break, the-AFC.com takes a look at how the groups stand with just four matches remaining.

The top two teams from each group will earn automatic qualification to the FIFA World Cup 26 while the third and fourth-placed teams will advance to a playoff, where another two slots are available.

An additional ticket is also available via an Inter-Confederation playoff.

Bento: UAE’s preparations secured triumph against Qatar

Wed, 20 Nov, 2024

Bento: UAE’s preparations secured triumph against Qatar

Abu Dhabi: United Arab Emirates head coach Paulo Bento attributed Tuesday’s 5-0 win against Qatar in their AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 Group A tie to thorough preparation.

Fabio Lima scored four times, including a first-half hat-trick, as UAE took possession of third place and kept Islamic Republic of Iran and Uzbekistan in sight. 

Pizzi’s tactical changes secure Kuwait vital draw

Wed, 20 Nov, 2024

Pizzi’s tactical changes secure Kuwait vital draw

Ardhiyah: Kuwait head coach Juan Antonio Pizzi praised his team’s second-half performance after their come from behind 1-1 draw with Jordan in their AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 Group B clash on Tuesday.

Kuwait found themselves trailing to Yazan Al Naimat’s curling effort, with Pizzi making key substitutions after the break which he said improved his team’s control of the game.

Iraq depth key to crucial victory over Oman, says Casas

Wed, 20 Nov, 2024

Iraq depth key to crucial victory over Oman, says Casas

Muscat: Iraq’s AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 campaign is back on track following a 1-0 win over Oman on Tuesday, with head coach Jesus Casas praising his team's improved performance.

Youssef Amyn’s first half strike moved Iraq to 11 points,three behind Group B leaders Korea Republic and two ahead of third-placed Jordan, having only claimed one point from their previous two matches. 

www.the-afc.com/en/national/asian_qualifiers.html/video/asianqualifiers-road-to-26-|-group-c-bahrain-2-2-australia

www.the-afc.com/en/national/asian_qualifiers.html/video/asianqualifiers-road-to-26-|-group-b-kuwait-1-1-jordan

Title, not qualification, is Moriyasu’s target for Japan

Wed, 20 Nov, 2024

Title, not qualification, is Moriyasu’s target for Japan

Xiamen: Tuesday’s 3-1 win over China PR means Japan are on the cusp of FIFA World Cup 26 qualification but head coach Hajime Moriyasu wants his players to not just settle for that but aim for glory at the global showpiece.

Despite a spirited challenge from China PR, Japan were simply too strong as they moved up to 16 points, nine ahead of Australia and one win away from sealing an eighth consecutive appearance at Finals.

IR Iran’s progress delights Ghalenoei

Wed, 20 Nov, 2024

IR Iran’s progress delights Ghalenoei

Bishkek: Islamic Republic of Iran’s journey in Group A of the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 thus far has been one to cherish for head coach Amir Ghalenoei.

Tuesday’s 3-2 win against Kyrgyz Republic kept Team Melli top of the group on 16 points, three ahead Uzbekistan with United Arab Emirates a further three adrift.

With qualification to the FIFA World Cup 26 well within reach now, Ghalenoei was pleased to see the attacking strength of his side but admitted knows defensive improvements are a must.