Jeddah and Taif will host 16 teams for the AFC U17 Asian Cup finals from April 3 to 20.
According to SPA, the tournament will use a new format where the top eight teams qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Qatar will host that event from November 5 to 27, featuring 48 teams for the first time in its history.
The draw held in January placed Saudi Arabia at the top of Group A with Uzbekistan, Thailand, and China. Group B consists of Japan, Australia, Vietnam, and the UAE, while Group C includes the Republic of Korea, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Indonesia. Group D features Iran, Tajikistan, Oman, and North Korea.
Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Al Misehal welcomed the participating teams and expressed hope for a successful tournament showcasing Asian football.
Where and when will the AFC U17 Asian Cup finals take place? The finals will be hosted in the cities of Jeddah and Taif in Saudi Arabia. The tournament is scheduled to run from April 3 to April 20 and will feature a total of 16 competing teams.
Which teams are competing in Group A and Group B? Group A consists of the host nation Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Thailand, and China. Group B includes Japan, Australia, Vietnam, and the UAE, as determined by the draw conducted last January.
How does the AFC U17 Asian Cup relate to the FIFA U-17 World Cup? The top eight teams from the AFC U17 Asian Cup will qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. This World Cup will be hosted by Qatar from November 5 to 27 and will feature 48 teams for the first time.