Hussein powers Iraq to Finals

Wed, 01 Apr, 2026

Hussein powers Iraq to Finals

Monterrey: Aymen Hussein scored the winner as Iraq booked their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating Bolivia 2-1 in their playoff at Monterrey Stadium on Tuesday.

The win sees the West Asian side return to the global showpiece for the first time since making their debut in 1986, ironically when the tournament was last held in Mexico.

Iraq will have France, Senegal and Norway for company in Group I of the global showpiece. 

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Hudson delighted as Thailand show resilience to qualify

Wed, 01 Apr, 2026

Hudson delighted as Thailand show resilience to qualify

Bangkok: Anthony Hudson was a relieved man after Thailand dug deep to overcome Turkmenistan 2-1 to advance to the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ following a pulsating tie at Rajamangala Stadium on Tuesday.

Thailand were staring at elimination with the score tied at 1-1 as Turkmenistan held the better head-to-head record having won the reverse fixture 3-1 but Manuel Bihr’s 89th minute goal turned agony into ecstasy for the War Elephants.

Preview - Group B: DPR Korea v Jordan

Wed, 01 Apr, 2026

Preview - Group B: DPR Korea v Jordan

Pathum Thani: DPR Korea know they have to be at their best when they take on Jordan in their opening AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ Group B match on Thursday.

The defending champions are aiming for their third title and a ninth FIFA U20 Women's World Cup qualification, and head coach Han Chol Hak knows a winning start is integral to their aspirations. 

Preview - Group B: Korea Republic v Uzbekistan

Wed, 01 Apr, 2026

Preview - Group B: Korea Republic v Uzbekistan

Nonthaburi: Both Korea Republic and Uzbekistan will head into their AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ Group B tie on Thursday brimming with confidence.

Eyeing a third title after triumphs in 2004 and 2013, Korea Republic head coach Park Youn Jeong is welcoming the opportunity for the young Taeguk Ladies to gain valuable experience while also showcasing their talent on the continental stage.

Preview - Group C: Japan v India

Wed, 01 Apr, 2026

Preview - Group C: Japan v India

Thammasat: Japan head coach Ijiri Akira has refused to take India lightly as the two sides prepare to face off in Group C of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ at the Thammasat Stadium on Thursday.

Six-time champions, Japan finished as runners-up in the 2024 edition and are up against a side returning to the competition for the first time in 20 years, and yet Ijiri dismissed any suggestion of complacency among the young Nadeshiko.

Preview - Group C: Australia v Chinese Taipei

Wed, 01 Apr, 2026

Preview - Group C: Australia v Chinese Taipei

Pathum Thani: Australia will not make the mistake of underestimating Chinese Taipei when the sides kick off their AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ Group C campaigns on Thursday.

The Young Matildas beat the East Asian side 3-0 in the Qualifiers en route to a perfect three-match run. Australia, who finished third in the last edition, also boast a superior head-to-head record, winning their previous encounters in 2009 and 2024.