October 3 – The AFC has drawn the groups for the U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 that kicks off January 6 in Jeddah.
The 16 teams were divided into four groups for the seventh edition of the tournament.
Hosts and 2022 champions Saudi Arabia will open the tournament at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium against tournament debutants Kyrgyz Republic in Group A. Saudi are one of the favourites to return to the stadium for the final on January 24.
Also in Group A are 2018 runners-up Vietnam and Jordan who also play in Jeddah at the King Abdullah Sports City hall Stadium on January 6 before the Saudis take centre stage.
Two-time and defending champions Japan are grouped with 2024 hosts Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Syria in Group B.
2020 champions Korea Republic head group C with 2018 champions Uzbekistan, as well as Iran and Lebanon, who are making their first appearance at the finals.
Group D top seeds and 2013 champions Iraq will have to overcome the challenge of Australia, Thailand and China.
Matches will be played in four stadia with the other two being the Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Stadium and the Al Shabbab Stadium in Riyadh.
The top two finishers of each group qualify for the knockout stages.
Draw Result
Group A: Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Jordan, Kyrgyz Republic
Group B: Japan, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Syria
Group C: Uzbekistan, Korea Republic, IR Iran, Lebanon
Group D: Iraq, Australia, Thailand, China PR
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