The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has been buzzing with activity, from developments in club competitions to youth schemes and national team preparations. Here's a look at some of the key stories:
AFC Futsal Asian Cup™ Indonesia 2026 Qualifiers Draw Finalized
The road to the AFC Futsal Asian Cup™ Indonesia 2026 is taking shape. The draw for the Qualifiers has been finalized, with 31 teams learning their opponents. The teams have been divided into seven groups of four and one group of three. The Qualifiers are scheduled to be played from September 20-24, 2025. The eight group winners and the seven best-ranked runners-up will join hosts Indonesia at the 18th edition of the Finals, which will commence next January.
AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Qualifiers Underway
Teams are vying for a spot in the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™. In Group B, Thailand commenced their campaign with a 4-0 victory over Timor-Leste, with Saowalak Pengngam scoring a hat-trick. Iraq defeated Mongolia 5-2, setting up a crucial match against Thailand. In Group F, Uzbekistan dominated Sri Lanka with a 10-0 win. DPR Korea also showcased their strength in Group H, with a 10-0 victory over Tajikistan.
Uzbekistan Football Association's Elite Youth Scheme Renewal
The Uzbekistan Football Association (UFA) is set to extend their status as a three-star member of the AFC's Elite Youth Scheme. The UFA's youth development programs have resulted in impressive achievements at the age-group level, including their triumph at the AFC U20 Asian Cup™ China 2025 and Olympic qualification last year.
FIFA Club World Cup 2025
With the inaugural expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on the horizon, AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has expressed confidence in the potential of Asia's four participating teams. In recent matches, Inter Milan secured a 2-0 victory against River Plate, while CF Monterrey defeated Urawa Red Diamonds 3-1.
AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 Playoffs
The Qatar Football Association and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation have been confirmed as the Host Member Associations for the upcoming AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 Playoffs. Six teams, including Indonesia, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, will compete in a centralised format from October 8 to 14, 2025, for the remaining automatic berths at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Other News
The AFC continues to drive development and competition across the continent, with a focus on youth development, women's football, and success on the global stage.
