The road to the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 begins on September 21, 2024, as 45 teams across Asia seek glory.
This prestigious tournament, now in its 42nd edition, promises to showcase the continent's brightest young talents in a thrilling display of skill and determination.
AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Format and Schedule
The qualifiers are structured into 10 groups, with five groups of four teams and five groups of five teams. Matches will be played in a centralized league format from September 21 to 29. Group winners and the five best runners-up will secure their spots in the final tournament, joining hosts China PR.
Top Contenders for AFC U20 Asian Cup 2025
Several football powerhouses are expected to make their mark:
Korea Republic: Holding a record 12 titles, they aim for their 19th consecutive finals appearance.
Japan: With one title and six runner-up finishes, they haven't lost a qualifier since 2011.
Saudi Arabia: Three-time champions eyeing their fourth straight qualification.
Uzbekistan: The defending champions from 2023 are looking to secure their ninth qualification.
Rising Nations in AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers
While traditional giants dominate the scene, several nations are looking to make history:
Bhutan, Guam, Macau, Maldives, Mongolia, Northern Mariana Islands, Palestine, Timor-Leste, and Turkmenistan are all vying for their first-ever qualification.
Cambodia aims to end the longest absence in the qualifiers, not appearing in the finals since 1974.
Key Groups in AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers
Group B: Features the defending champions Uzbekistan alongside Nepal, Cambodia, Chinese Taipei, and Bahrain.
Group C: Includes 12-time champions Korea Republic, Kuwait, UAE, Lebanon, and Northern Mariana Islands.
Group I: Japan faces off against India, Kyrgyz Republic, Myanmar, and Turkmenistan.
AFC U20 Asian Cup: A Legacy of Youth Development
The qualifying stage, first implemented in 1980, has become a crucial stepping stone for young p
Eleven groups drawn as 44 teams begin the road to Saudi Arabia 2026. Qualifiers kick off this September across Asia.