The draw for the group stage of the 2023 Asian Games has been made, with India’s men’s and women’s teams learning about their opponents in the first round. The tournament will be held in China between September 18 – October 7, 2023.
Both Indian teams were originally not allowed to participate due to their low ranking among other Asian teams. But, the decision was overturned after mass protests and requests from players, coaches and fans. Now, the group stage draw has been made for both sets of players.
2023 Asian Games draw made: Who will India face?
The men’s team has been drawn in Group A, which also consists of hosts China PR, Bangladesh and Myanmar. The teams will face each other once as part of a round robin system to determine the standings.
There are 23 participating groups, with Group D consisting of three teams while others having four. The top two teams from each group will directly qualify for the knockout stages.
On the other hand, the four best third placing teams among all groups will also advance to the Round of 16.
The women’s team has been drawn with Chinese Taipei and Thailand in Group B. There are 17 participating teams in the women’s tournament, with two groups having four teams while the others have three.
Both the men’s and women’s teams have had favourable draws and are expected to make it to the next round, especially owing to their record against these teams in the recent past.
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