We have to believe in ourselves, says China PR’s Hu

Fri, 23 Jan, 2026

We have to believe in ourselves, says China PR’s Hu

Jeddah: Hu Hetao knows China PR face a huge challenge but it is one they are looking forward to when they meet Japan in the final of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ on Saturday.

History is what Hu and his teammates will be bidding to make with China PR having never lifted the trophy.

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Preview - Final: China PR v Japan

Sat, 24 Jan, 2026

Preview - Final: China PR v Japan

Jeddah: The AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ final between China PR and Japan promises to be a battle of tactical wits at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium on Saturday.

Antonio Puche’s China PR’s run to a final was based on defensive solidity while Japan have been impressive in all departments, with Go Oiwa’s side aiming to defend their title and lift the trophy for a record-extending third time. 

Umeki: Japan will fight till the end

Fri, 23 Jan, 2026

Umeki: Japan will fight till the end

Jeddah:  Japan, Rei Umeki has stressed, are ready for the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ final against China PR on Saturday.

Japan enter the match with an unbeaten record, having demonstrated consistency and resilience under pressure that has made them frontrunners for the title.

Know the Coach - Antonio Puche (China PR)

Thu, 22 Jan, 2026

Know the Coach - Antonio Puche (China PR)

Jeddah: Antonio Puche is one match away from completing a perfect AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ campaign, with his China PR side ready to take on defending champions Japan in the final on Saturday.

The Spaniard has overseen a remarkable journey to the final with China PR having not conceded a single goal – a statistic that underlines the collective discipline Puche has instilled in his squad.

Know The Coach - Go Oiwa (Japan)

Thu, 22 Jan, 2026

Know The Coach - Go Oiwa (Japan)

Doha: Go Oiwa will add another milestone to his football career if he steers Japan to the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ title on Saturday.

The experienced tactician is in charge of Japan for the third consecutive edition and will become the first coach to win the title twice if his side see off the challenge of China PR.

#ACFutsal2026 - Know Your Teams: Group C

Tue, 20 Jan, 2026

#ACFutsal2026 - Know Your Teams: Group C

Jakarta: The AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ kick-off is imminent with the continent’s best descending on Jakarta. 

As we continue our buildup, the-AFC.com shifts the spotlight to Group C, with top class action expected from the stellar cast.