Q-final: Japan cruise past Afghanistan

Tue, 03 Feb, 2026

Q-final: Japan cruise past Afghanistan

Jakarta: Japan burst into life in the second half to defeat Afghanistan 6-0 in their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ quarter-final on Tuesday.

The former champions, who netted five goals after the break, will face either Indonesia or Vietnam in the semi-finals on Thursday.

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Q-final: Iraq stay on course with win against Thailand

Tue, 03 Feb, 2026

Q-final: Iraq stay on course with win against Thailand

Jakarta: Iraq stayed on track for a first title after they defeated Thailand 4-1 on Tuesday to reach the semi-finals of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™. 

Back at the last four stage for the first time since 2018, Iraq’s reward is an enticing meeting with defending champions Islamic Republic of Iran - who defeated Uzbekistan 7-4 in their last eight tie - on Thursday.

Q-final: IR Iran turn on the power to see off Uzbekistan

Tue, 03 Feb, 2026

Q-final: IR Iran turn on the power to see off Uzbekistan

Jakarta: Islamic Republic of Iran came from two goals down to defeat Uzbekistan 7-4 in a thrilling AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ quarter-final on Tuesday.

The win for the 13-time champions sets up a semi-final clash with Iraq - who defeated Thailand 4-2 in their quarter-final - on Thursday.

Benzema joins Al Hilal

Tue, 03 Feb, 2026

Benzema joins Al Hilal

Riyadh: Striker Karim Benzema has signed for Al Hilal SFC, the Saudi Pro League leaders announced on Monday.

The former France forward - in leaving Al Ittihad Club - has signed an 18-month contract.

Karachik’s Uzbekistan journey defined by challenges

Mon, 02 Feb, 2026

Karachik’s Uzbekistan journey defined by challenges

Kuala Lumpur: Football will always have a variety of meaning for Lyudmila Karachik, the icon of women’s football in Uzbekistan with her journey in the sport bookmarked at various stages by the challenges faced.

At an early age, football became a form of escape for Karachik that eventually turned into something more as she led Uzbekistan to a return to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ after a 23-year absence.

From her beginnings to helping Uzbekistan overcome their heartbreak, the 30-year-old sat down with the-AFC.com to share her experience.

Europe Wrap: Yuto, Hong on the mark

Mon, 02 Feb, 2026

Europe Wrap: Yuto, Hong on the mark

Kuala Lumpur: Japan midfielder Yuto Tsunashima and former Korea Republic international Hong Hyeon-seok both had a memorable week in the Belgian Pro League - Yuto netting his first goal for Antwerp in 17 appearances and Hong doing the same in his third outing with Gent.

Other continental stars also played their part in key overseas leagues, so follow the-AFC.com as we look at what Asia’s finest have been up to in Europe.