S-final: Koizumi strike helps Japan edge Korea Republic

Wed, 21 Jan, 2026

S-final: Koizumi strike helps Japan edge Korea Republic

Jeddah: Japan defeated a resurgent Korea Republic 1-0 to advance to the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ final on Tuesday.

Kaito Koizumi’s first half goal proved decisive with Japan moving within a match of not only lifting the trophy for a record-extending third time but also to become the first team to emerge champions in consecutive editions, with China PR their opponents in the final on Saturday.

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S-final: China PR power past Vietnam

Wed, 21 Jan, 2026

S-final: China PR power past Vietnam

Jeddah: China PR went into overdrive in the second half to beat Vietnam 3-0 and book their place in the final of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ on Tuesday.

It was a well deserved victory as China PR dominated the semi-final, with strikes from Peng Xiao, Xiang Yuwang and Wang Yudong taking them into the final for the first time.

#ACFutsal2026 challengers set for Indonesia showdown

Wed, 14 Jan, 2026

#ACFutsal2026 challengers set for Indonesia showdown

Kuala Lumpur: Thrilling battles await at the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ when it kicks off on January 27 (Tuesday) in Jakarta as 16 teams chase ultimate glory.

The 18th edition of the tournament features a host of familiar contenders, with 13 returning from the previous campaign in 2024, including the ever-present quartet of Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, Thailand and Uzbekistan, who extend their record of appearing in every Finals to date.

Europe Wrap: First goals for Kim, Hwang

Tue, 20 Jan, 2026

Europe Wrap: First goals for Kim, Hwang

Kuala Lumpur: Korea Republic’s Kim Min-jae and Hwang In-beom claimed their first goals of the season for Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich and Eredivise’s Feyenoord respectively.

Both internationals were making a comeback following injuries - Kim made the starting line-up for the first time in three matches while Hwang returned to the pitch in mid-December last year.

Other continental stars also found the back of the net or assisted goals, so follow the-AFC.com as we look at what Asia’s finest have been up to in Europe.

Japan remain Asia's best despite drop

Tue, 20 Jan, 2026

Japan remain Asia's best despite drop

Kuala Lumpur: Japan dropped one spot but remained the highest Asian team in the latest FIFA World Ranking released on Monday.

Four-time AFC Asian Cup™ winners Japan slipped to 19th, with several other Asian sides also suffering drops.

Herdman vows to lead Indonesia to greater heights

Mon, 19 Jan, 2026

Herdman vows to lead Indonesia to greater heights

Jakarta: New Indonesia head coach John Herdman has said he will look to harness the enthusiasm of the nation’s passionate support to lead the country into uncharted territory, including at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™, after replacing Patrick Kluivert at the helm.

The Englishman, who led Canada to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, was unveiled last week and has already been impressed by the welcome he has received in the Southeast Asian nation.