AFC Asian Cup 2023: Match Schedule & TV Guide
Introduction to AFC Asian Cup 2023
Overview of the Tournament
The AFC Asian Cup is the premier international men's football championship of Asia, organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). First held in 1956, it showcases the continent's best national teams vying for the coveted title. The 2023 edition, though nominally titled as such, is actually taking place in early 2024, from January 12th to February 10th. With increased participation and a revamped format, this tournament promises thrilling competition and a testament to the growing passion for football across Asia. A significant stake rides on this tournament for many nations looking to prove their footballing prowess.
Participating Teams & Groups
A total of 24 teams are competing in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, divided into six groups of four. These teams represent a diverse range of footballing styles and levels of experience. The groups are as follows:* Group A: Qatar, China, Tajikistan, Lebanon* Group B: Australia, Uzbekistan, Syria, Jordan* Group C: Iran, Hong Kong, Palestine, United Arab Emirates* Group D: Iraq, Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam* Group E: South Korea, Bahrain, Malaysia, Jordan* Group F: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kyrgyzstan, Thailand
Host Nation & Venues
Qatar is hosting the tournament, utilizing eight state-of-the-art stadiums previously used for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. These venues provide a world-class experience for players and fans alike, furthering Qatar’s ambition to become a global sports hub. The event highlights the country’s growing stake in international sporting events.
Complete Match Schedule (Group Stage)
Group A – Schedule & Results
(Example - Actual results will vary)Qatar vs. Lebanon (1-0)China vs. Tajikistan (0-1)Qatar vs. China (3-1)Tajikistan vs. Lebanon (1-0)China vs. Lebanon (1-2)Tajikistan vs. Qatar (0-1)
Group B – Schedule & Results
(Example - Actual results will vary)Australia vs. Jordan (1-0)Uzbekistan vs. Syria (2-1)Australia vs. Uzbekistan (1-1)Syria vs. Jordan (0-1)Australia vs. Syria (1-0)Jordan vs. Uzbekistan (0-0)
Group C – Schedule & Results
(Example - Actual results will vary)Iran vs. Hong Kong (5-0)UAE vs. Palestine (1-0)Iran vs. UAE (4-1)Palestine vs. Hong Kong (0-3)Iran vs. Palestine (2-1)Hong Kong vs. UAE (1-2)
Group D – Schedule & Results
(Example - Actual results will vary)Iraq vs. Indonesia (2-1)Japan vs. Vietnam (4-2)Iraq vs. Japan (1-2)Vietnam vs. Indonesia (0-1)Iraq vs. Vietnam (3-2)Indonesia vs. Japan (1-3)
Group E – Schedule & Results
(Example - Actual results will vary)South Korea vs. Bahrain (2-1)Malaysia vs. Jordan (0-2)South Korea vs. Malaysia (3-0)Bahrain vs. Jordan (1-0)South Korea vs. Jordan (2-2)Malaysia vs. Bahrain (1-2)
Group F – Schedule & Results
(Example - Actual results will vary)Saudi Arabia vs. Kyrgyzstan (2-0)Oman vs. Thailand (2-1)Saudi Arabia vs. Oman (1-0)Kyrgyzstan vs. Thailand (0-2)Saudi Arabia vs. Thailand (3-1)Kyrgyzstan vs. Oman (1-2)
Knockout Stage Schedule (Based on Group Stage Results)
Round of 16 – Match Schedule & Potential Matchups
(Dependent on group stage results – Example)1A vs. 2C2A vs. 1C1B vs. 2F2B vs. 1F
Quarter-Finals – Match Schedule & Potential Matchups
(Dependent on Round of 16 results – Example)Winner of 1A/2C vs. Winner of 2A/1CWinner of 1B/2F vs. Winner of 2B/1F
Semi-Finals – Match Schedule & Potential Matchups
(Dependent on Quarter-Final results – Example)Winner of QF1 vs. Winner of QF2
Final & 3rd Place Play-off – Schedule & Location
Final: February 10th, Lusail Iconic Stadium3rd Place Play-off: February 9th, Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium
Where to Watch: TV Channels & Streaming Options
TV Channels Broadcasting the AFC Asian Cup 2023 (Region Specific - e.g., USA, UK, India, Australia, MENA)
Coverage varies widely by region. In the USA, beIN SPORTS typically carries matches. In the UK, DAZN or similar sports streaming platforms are possibilities. In India, Star Sports is expected to be the primary broadcaster. Australia will likely have coverage on Network 10 and Paramount+. MENA region will see extensive coverage on beIN SPORTS.
Streaming Services Carrying the AFC Asian Cup 2023 (Region Specific)
Streaming options parallel TV coverage. DAZN, ESPN+, and beIN SPORTS CONNECT are viable options, depending on the viewer’s location. Many broadcasts are available through official AFC streaming partners.
Official AFC Asian Cup Website & App for Live Updates
The official AFC Asian Cup website and mobile app provide real-time scores, news, and highlights.
Potential Subscription Costs & Free-to-Air Options
Subscription costs vary by service. Some regions have free-to-air options for select matches.
Key Players to Watch
Top Strikers & Goalscorers
Keep an eye on players like Ali Mabkhout (UAE) and Son Heung-min (South Korea), known for their goal-scoring prowess.
Promising Midfielders
Players controlling the tempo will be crucial, with talents emerging from Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Solid Defenders & Goalkeepers
Strong defenses are essential for success, and teams like Japan and Qatar boast reliable backlines and goalkeeping. Outside of the pitch, there's a significant stake involved for many global sponsorships, including team sponsorships - the stake f1 team kick sauber being a prominent example of brand investment in sports.
Tournament Format & Rules
Group Stage Qualification Criteria
The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, advance to the Round of 16.
Knockout Stage Tie-Breaking Rules
Standard FIFA tie-breaking rules apply, including head-to-head record, goal difference, and goals scored.
VAR Implementation & Regulations
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology is being used throughout the tournament to ensure fair play and accurate decision-making.
Latest News & Updates
Injury Reports & Squad Changes
Stay updated on any last-minute injury concerns or squad changes that may impact team performances.
Match Previews & Predictions
Expert analysis and predictions are available from various sports outlets.
Post-Match Analysis & Highlights
Comprehensive post-match analysis and highlights are available on the AFC website and partnered media outlets.
Useful Resources & Links
Official AFC Asian Cup Website
https://www.afcasiancup.com/
FIFA Rankings of Participating Teams
https://www.fifa.com/worldranking/ranking/
Tournament Statistics & Results
https://www.afcasiancup.com/statistics/
The financial stake associated with hosting and participating in the 2023 afc asian cup television show is substantial, driving investment and viewership. The competition and spectacle around these afc asian cup matches are what define international football.
