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News

Player to watch: Issam Sabhi (OMA)

Thu, 01 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Issam Sabhi (OMA)

Kuala Lumpur: Issam Sabhi will be determined to make up for lost time when Oman compete in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ in January.

The Qatar 2023 edition was Sabhi’s first participation in the continental showpiece and the 29-year-old will be out to make his mark for his nation.

Player to watch: Mohammad Daham (KUW)

Thu, 01 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Mohammad Daham (KUW)

Kuala Lumpur: Mohammad Daham has developed into an influential attacking player and will be among the names expected to carry Oman’s hopes at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™.

Capable of operating across the attacking line, Daham’s rise began with Al Nasr Sporting Club, where his performance during the 2022/23 season propelled him into the national spotlight. 

Player to watch: Salem Al Dawsari (KSA)

Wed, 30 Sep, 2026

Player to watch: Salem Al Dawsari (KSA)

Kuala Lumpur: Salem Al Dawsari will be aiming to drive Saudi Arabia to glory when they host the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ in January.

A possible swansong for the attacker in the continental showpiece, the 19th edition of the competition will be Al Dawsari’s fourth tournament with his motivation to deliver the savoured silverware remaining as high as ever.

100 days to go: Saudi Arabia ready for #AsianCup2027

Tue, 29 Sep, 2026

100 days to go: Saudi Arabia ready for #AsianCup2027

Riyadh: Today marks the latest milestone for the grandest-ever edition of Asia’s crown jewel as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia gears up to play host for the first time in tournament history.

With 100 days to go until the opening match of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ on January 7, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) confirmed that preparations have transitioned from the planning phase to full operational status for the 19th iteration of the showpiece.

OCAC praises #AsianCup2027 preparations as operational milestones accelerate

Tue, 29 Sep, 2026

OCAC praises #AsianCup2027 preparations as operational milestones accelerate

Kuala Lumpur: With 100 days to go until the highly anticipated AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™, the Organising Committee for the AFC Asian Cup (OCAC) today applauded the major operational milestones achieved as preparations enter their final readiness phases.

Chairing the fifth meeting, held virtually, Chairperson Mariano V. Araneta, Jr. expressed high praise for the significant progress made by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) in setting new benchmarks of excellence for the Continent’s premier men’s tournament.

KHUZAMA unveiled as Official Match Ball of AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Tue, 29 Sep, 2026

KHUZAMA unveiled as Official Match Ball of AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Kuala Lumpur: With the 100-day countdown officially underway, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and KELME today officially introduced KHUZAMA – the Official Match Ball for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™, taking place from January 7 to February 5, 2027.

Named after the resilient wild lavender that blooms across Saudi Arabia, KHUZAMA draws inspiration from the dramatic moment the landscape transforms as the flowers blossom in unison. The distinctive violet hue reflects the traditional ceremonial colour used to welcome honoured guests, symbolising the warm hospitality extended to every team, official, and fan attending the Continental showpiece.

https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup.html/video/khuzama-official-match-ball-afc-asian-cup-saudi-arabia-2027™

Rayan header denies Australia

Fri, 25 Sep, 2026

Rayan header denies Australia

Townsville: A last minute header from Brazilian substitute Rayan salvaged a 1-1 draw with Australia in a thrilling international friendly in Townsville on Friday.

Rayan headed the ball home in the 95th minute to deny the hosts what would have been only their second win over the South American giants.

Emphatic victories for China PR, Japan, Korea Republic, Uzbekistan

Fri, 25 Sep, 2026

Emphatic victories for China PR, Japan, Korea Republic, Uzbekistan

Kuala Lumpur: Japan scored twice in second half added time to defeat Uruguay 3-1 in a men's international friendly on Thursday.

China PR, Korea Republic and Uzbekistan also enjoyed wins while Palestine played to a draw against New Zealand.

Record 76 match officials confirmed for AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Thu, 24 Sep, 2026

Record 76 match officials confirmed for AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Kuala Lumpur: The countdown to the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ reached a significant milestone on Thursday with the confirmation of the largest-ever contingent of match officials in the competition’s history.

The 76-strong line-up features 24 referees and 41 assistant referees, who will be joined by 11 Video Match Officials (VMOs).

Korea Republic appoint Moreno as interim head coach

Wed, 02 Sep, 2026

Korea Republic appoint Moreno as interim head coach

Seoul: Korea Republic Football Association (KFA) announced the appointment of former Spain boss Robert Moreno as the interim men’s national team head coach on Tuesday.

Korea Republic will compete in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ which runs from January 7 to February 5, with KFA saying Moreno could lead the team "subject to an evaluation" of his performance.

Arnold promises a strong Iraq

Wed, 26 Aug, 2026

Arnold promises a strong Iraq

Baghdad: Graham Arnold has vowed that Iraq will work to be a force in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ after the Australian signed a contract extension as head coach on Monday.

The new contract will see the tactician in charge of Iraq for September's Gulf Cup and the continental showpiece in January, with Arnold signing a six-month extension although the Iraq Football Association had offered a four-year deal

Photos

Player to watch: Issam Sabhi (OMA)

Thu, 01 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Issam Sabhi (OMA)

Kuala Lumpur: Issam Sabhi will be determined to make up for lost time when Oman compete in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ in January.

The Qatar 2023 edition was Sabhi’s first participation in the continental showpiece and the 29-year-old will be out to make his mark for his nation.

Player to watch: Mohammad Daham (KUW)

Thu, 01 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Mohammad Daham (KUW)

Kuala Lumpur: Mohammad Daham has developed into an influential attacking player and will be among the names expected to carry Oman’s hopes at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™.

Capable of operating across the attacking line, Daham’s rise began with Al Nasr Sporting Club, where his performance during the 2022/23 season propelled him into the national spotlight. 

Player to watch: Salem Al Dawsari (KSA)

Wed, 30 Sep, 2026

Player to watch: Salem Al Dawsari (KSA)

Kuala Lumpur: Salem Al Dawsari will be aiming to drive Saudi Arabia to glory when they host the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ in January.

A possible swansong for the attacker in the continental showpiece, the 19th edition of the competition will be Al Dawsari’s fourth tournament with his motivation to deliver the savoured silverware remaining as high as ever.

100 days to go: Saudi Arabia ready for #AsianCup2027

Tue, 29 Sep, 2026

100 days to go: Saudi Arabia ready for #AsianCup2027

Riyadh: Today marks the latest milestone for the grandest-ever edition of Asia’s crown jewel as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia gears up to play host for the first time in tournament history.

With 100 days to go until the opening match of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ on January 7, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) confirmed that preparations have transitioned from the planning phase to full operational status for the 19th iteration of the showpiece.

KHUZAMA unveiled as Official Match Ball of AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Tue, 29 Sep, 2026

KHUZAMA unveiled as Official Match Ball of AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Kuala Lumpur: With the 100-day countdown officially underway, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and KELME today officially introduced KHUZAMA – the Official Match Ball for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™, taking place from January 7 to February 5, 2027.

Named after the resilient wild lavender that blooms across Saudi Arabia, KHUZAMA draws inspiration from the dramatic moment the landscape transforms as the flowers blossom in unison. The distinctive violet hue reflects the traditional ceremonial colour used to welcome honoured guests, symbolising the warm hospitality extended to every team, official, and fan attending the Continental showpiece.

https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup.html/video/khuzama-official-match-ball-afc-asian-cup-saudi-arabia-2027™

Korea Republic appoint Moreno as interim head coach

Wed, 02 Sep, 2026

Korea Republic appoint Moreno as interim head coach

Seoul: Korea Republic Football Association (KFA) announced the appointment of former Spain boss Robert Moreno as the interim men’s national team head coach on Tuesday.

Korea Republic will compete in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ which runs from January 7 to February 5, with KFA saying Moreno could lead the team "subject to an evaluation" of his performance.

Arnold promises a strong Iraq

Wed, 26 Aug, 2026

Arnold promises a strong Iraq

Baghdad: Graham Arnold has vowed that Iraq will work to be a force in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ after the Australian signed a contract extension as head coach on Monday.

The new contract will see the tactician in charge of Iraq for September's Gulf Cup and the continental showpiece in January, with Arnold signing a six-month extension although the Iraq Football Association had offered a four-year deal

Dalic appointed UAE head coach

Thu, 13 Aug, 2026

Dalic appointed UAE head coach

Dubai: Zlatko Dalic was revealed as the new head coach of the United Arab Emirates Wednesday.

The 59-year-old takes over from Cosmin Olariou, who lasted 13 months in the role after replacing Paulo Bento.

Dalic comes with the pedigree of having led Croatia to the final of FIFA World Cup 2018 and the semi-finals four years later.

Lee wants history-makers Singapore to inspire pride and growth

Thu, 06 Aug, 2026

Lee wants history-makers Singapore to inspire pride and growth

Riyadh: Trailing by a goal in their penultimate fixture of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ Qualifiers Final Round, Singapore’s hopes were fading fast in front of a near-capacity home crowd.

Defeat to Hong Kong, China in the winner-takes-all showdown would eliminate the Lions via the head-to-head criterion and extend an absence from Asia’s crown jewel that dates back to their debut in 1984, while sealing back-to-back qualifications for the home side.

But a two-goal salvo within five minutes saw Gavin Lee’s charges flip the script and stun the hosts, as they held on for a historic victory last November that sealed a maiden qualification on merit to the AFC Asian Cup™.

Prosinecki sees bright future for Kyrgyz football

Mon, 03 Aug, 2026

Prosinecki sees bright future for Kyrgyz football

Riyadh: Robert Prosinecki knew he was stepping into a unique challenge when he accepted the role of Kyrygz Republic head coach.

Convinced by the potential of the Central Asian side, Prosinecki didn’t require much convincing and the 57-year-old Croat is now plotting Kyrgyz Republic’s AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ challenge.

Donis confident of Saudi Arabia's chances

Mon, 03 Aug, 2026

Donis confident of Saudi Arabia's chances

Riyadh: Georgios Donis fully comprehends the weight of the responsibility on his shoulders as he looks to lead Saudi Arabia to their first AFC Asian Cup™ title in more than 30 years in the 2027 edition in January.

Donis, who hails from Greece and was appointed last April ahead of Saudi Arabia’s FIFA World Cup 2026 challenge, believes his long-standing knowledge and experience in West Asia puts him in good stead for what lies ahead.

Videos

Player to watch: Issam Sabhi (OMA)

Thu, 01 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Issam Sabhi (OMA)

Kuala Lumpur: Issam Sabhi will be determined to make up for lost time when Oman compete in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ in January.

The Qatar 2023 edition was Sabhi’s first participation in the continental showpiece and the 29-year-old will be out to make his mark for his nation.

Player to watch: Mohammad Daham (KUW)

Thu, 01 Oct, 2026

Player to watch: Mohammad Daham (KUW)

Kuala Lumpur: Mohammad Daham has developed into an influential attacking player and will be among the names expected to carry Oman’s hopes at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™.

Capable of operating across the attacking line, Daham’s rise began with Al Nasr Sporting Club, where his performance during the 2022/23 season propelled him into the national spotlight. 

Player to watch: Salem Al Dawsari (KSA)

Wed, 30 Sep, 2026

Player to watch: Salem Al Dawsari (KSA)

Kuala Lumpur: Salem Al Dawsari will be aiming to drive Saudi Arabia to glory when they host the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ in January.

A possible swansong for the attacker in the continental showpiece, the 19th edition of the competition will be Al Dawsari’s fourth tournament with his motivation to deliver the savoured silverware remaining as high as ever.

100 days to go: Saudi Arabia ready for #AsianCup2027

Tue, 29 Sep, 2026

100 days to go: Saudi Arabia ready for #AsianCup2027

Riyadh: Today marks the latest milestone for the grandest-ever edition of Asia’s crown jewel as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia gears up to play host for the first time in tournament history.

With 100 days to go until the opening match of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ on January 7, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) confirmed that preparations have transitioned from the planning phase to full operational status for the 19th iteration of the showpiece.

KHUZAMA unveiled as Official Match Ball of AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Tue, 29 Sep, 2026

KHUZAMA unveiled as Official Match Ball of AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Kuala Lumpur: With the 100-day countdown officially underway, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and KELME today officially introduced KHUZAMA – the Official Match Ball for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™, taking place from January 7 to February 5, 2027.

Named after the resilient wild lavender that blooms across Saudi Arabia, KHUZAMA draws inspiration from the dramatic moment the landscape transforms as the flowers blossom in unison. The distinctive violet hue reflects the traditional ceremonial colour used to welcome honoured guests, symbolising the warm hospitality extended to every team, official, and fan attending the Continental showpiece.

https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup.html/video/khuzama-official-match-ball-afc-asian-cup-saudi-arabia-2027™

Korea Republic appoint Moreno as interim head coach

Wed, 02 Sep, 2026

Korea Republic appoint Moreno as interim head coach

Seoul: Korea Republic Football Association (KFA) announced the appointment of former Spain boss Robert Moreno as the interim men’s national team head coach on Tuesday.

Korea Republic will compete in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ which runs from January 7 to February 5, with KFA saying Moreno could lead the team "subject to an evaluation" of his performance.

Arnold promises a strong Iraq

Wed, 26 Aug, 2026

Arnold promises a strong Iraq

Baghdad: Graham Arnold has vowed that Iraq will work to be a force in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ after the Australian signed a contract extension as head coach on Monday.

The new contract will see the tactician in charge of Iraq for September's Gulf Cup and the continental showpiece in January, with Arnold signing a six-month extension although the Iraq Football Association had offered a four-year deal

Dalic appointed UAE head coach

Thu, 13 Aug, 2026

Dalic appointed UAE head coach

Dubai: Zlatko Dalic was revealed as the new head coach of the United Arab Emirates Wednesday.

The 59-year-old takes over from Cosmin Olariou, who lasted 13 months in the role after replacing Paulo Bento.

Dalic comes with the pedigree of having led Croatia to the final of FIFA World Cup 2018 and the semi-finals four years later.

Lee wants history-makers Singapore to inspire pride and growth

Thu, 06 Aug, 2026

Lee wants history-makers Singapore to inspire pride and growth

Riyadh: Trailing by a goal in their penultimate fixture of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ Qualifiers Final Round, Singapore’s hopes were fading fast in front of a near-capacity home crowd.

Defeat to Hong Kong, China in the winner-takes-all showdown would eliminate the Lions via the head-to-head criterion and extend an absence from Asia’s crown jewel that dates back to their debut in 1984, while sealing back-to-back qualifications for the home side.

But a two-goal salvo within five minutes saw Gavin Lee’s charges flip the script and stun the hosts, as they held on for a historic victory last November that sealed a maiden qualification on merit to the AFC Asian Cup™.

Prosinecki sees bright future for Kyrgyz football

Mon, 03 Aug, 2026

Prosinecki sees bright future for Kyrgyz football

Riyadh: Robert Prosinecki knew he was stepping into a unique challenge when he accepted the role of Kyrygz Republic head coach.

Convinced by the potential of the Central Asian side, Prosinecki didn’t require much convincing and the 57-year-old Croat is now plotting Kyrgyz Republic’s AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ challenge.

Donis confident of Saudi Arabia's chances

Mon, 03 Aug, 2026

Donis confident of Saudi Arabia's chances

Riyadh: Georgios Donis fully comprehends the weight of the responsibility on his shoulders as he looks to lead Saudi Arabia to their first AFC Asian Cup™ title in more than 30 years in the 2027 edition in January.

Donis, who hails from Greece and was appointed last April ahead of Saudi Arabia’s FIFA World Cup 2026 challenge, believes his long-standing knowledge and experience in West Asia puts him in good stead for what lies ahead.