Group B: Tajikistan 2-2 IR Iran; Afghanistan 0-0 India

Hisor: Islamic Republic of Iran finished top of Group B after being held to a 2-2 draw by Tajikistan, to book their place in the final of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 on Thursday.

UAE remain grounded after Guam win

Abu Dhabi: Captain Eisa Khalfan praised the United Arab Emirates’ for their collective effort in their 13-0 AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers Group I victory against Guam on Wednesday.

Bahri pleased with Syria’s persistence

Dushanbe: Head coach Maher Bahri acknowledged that Syria’s AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers Group K tie against the Philippines was tougher than expected following their hard-earned 2-1 win on Wednesday.

Khaydarov demands more from Uzbekistan after opening victory

Bishkek: Ravshan Khaydarov had mixed emotions despite former champions Uzbekistan getting their AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers Group E campaign off to a great start on Wednesday.

Thawatchai: Early goal paved the way for Thailand

Pathum Thani: Head coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul was pleased with how Thailand started their AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers campaign as the Southeast Asian side eye a sixth successive Finals appearance.

Qualifiers - Matchday One: Results & Reports

Kuala Lumpur: Matchday One of the AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers delivered thrills and spills with big wins, tight affairs and spectacular goals.