The AFC Asian Cup’s 18th edition is scheduled for January and February, a departure from its usual timing in 2024, a decision influenced by Qatar’s hosting and the region’s summer heat. The defending champions aim for a repeat of their historic 2019 win when the tournament was hosted by the UAE.
They’ll face formidable opponents boasting prominent players, given that Japan, South Korea, Iran, and Australia all hold positions within the top 25 in FIFA’s Rankings.
Japan, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea stand out as the most successful teams in the tournament’s history. The Saudis and South Korea share the record for six finals appearances, while Japan boasts the most victories with four titles in five finals. Iran holds the second-most titles, having triumphed three times.
Israel secured a victory in 1964 before joining UEFA. Australia, Iraq, and Qatar have also clinched Asian Cups. China, UAE, India, and Myanmar have reached finals but fell short of claiming the trophy, each coming up one win shy.
Excitement Builds as India Gears Up for AFC Asian Cup 2023 Opener Against Australia
In a much-anticipated clash, the Indian men’s football team, led by the indomitable Sunil Chhetri, is set to kick off their AFC Asian Cup 2023 campaign against Australia at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, on January 13.
The Blue Tigers have set aside their grand reception in Doha and commenced training for the imminent AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. While many familiar faces are present, a few players are yet to make their senior international debut.
Although the coaching team has remained consistent over the past year, a new addition is notable – Trevor Sinclair, a former England international and 2002 World Cup participant. The 50-year-old has joined the National Team as an assistant coach alongside Mahesh Gawali and participated in the Blue Tigers’ training session for the first time on New Year’s Eve.
“It’s been a hectic few days with all the travel, but we’ve gotten things underway with a gym and a training session, and frankly, I’m impressed,” Sinclair said to the-aiff.com. “It’s a set of hardworking, humble, enthusiastic, and talented group of lads.”
“They have a very good relationship with (head coach) Igor (Stimac) and the staff, and they want to try and do their best for the country,” he said.
Trevor Sinclair, a rapid winger in his Premier League days with clubs like Manchester City and West Ham, brings his expertise to the National Team. Specializing in training set-pieces, Sinclair believes that mastering this aspect can provide a crucial advantage to any team at various points during a match.
AFC Asian Cup 2023 Schedule and Opponents
The AFC Asian Cup has drawn together formidable teams, with India placed in Group B alongside Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria. Fans in India can catch all the thrilling action through live streaming and telecast of the matches.
- Australia Encounter: Following the opening encounter against Australia, the Blue Tigers are geared up for a face-off against Uzbekistan at the same venue on January 18.
- Group Finale: Under the strategic guidance of head coach Igor Stimac, India’s final group match is scheduled against Syria at the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor on January 23.
𝗜𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗯𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 🔥
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) January 4, 2024
India's Asian Dream 💙
🇮🇳🆚🇭🇲🇺🇿🇸🇾
Catch the #BlueTigers 🐯 LIVE in action at the #AsianCup2023 🏆 only on @sports18 and @JioCinema 📺#IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/Tx9b16ghvO
India’s Group B fixtures at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023
January 13, 2024: Australia vs India (17:00 IST, Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)
January 18, 2024: India vs Uzbekistan (20:00 IST, Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)
January 23, 2024: Syria vs India (17:00 IST, Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)
Tournament Structure
The 18th edition of the AFC Asian Cup, hosted by Qatar, will witness the participation of 24 teams. These teams are divided into six groups, where each squad will compete against the others in their group once. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, will progress to the knockout stage encompassing the round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and ultimately leading to the grand finale at the Lusail Stadium on February 10, 2023.
Match Venue
Nine stadiums in Qatar — Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah, Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium and Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, and four stadia in Al Rayyan: Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Education City Stadium, Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, and Khalifa International Stadium.
Indian Squad Announcement
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has unveiled a formidable 26-member squad for the AFC Asian Cup 2023, captained by the iconic Sunil Chhetri. The lineup includes stalwarts like goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, defender Sandesh Jhingan, midfielder Anirudh Thapa, and forward Lallianzuala Chhangte. Notably, players like Brandon Fernandes and Sahal Abdul Samad, initially doubtful, have secured their spots.
India’s 26-member Squad for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023
Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith.
Defenders: Akash Mishra, Lalchungnunga, Mehtab Singh, Nikhil Poojary, Pritam Kotal, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose.
Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Brandon Fernandes, Deepak Tangri, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Sahal Abdul Samad, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Udanta Singh.
Forwards: Ishan Pandita, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Sunil Chhetri, Vikram Partap Singh.
"Excited to be here!" 😄
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) January 1, 2024
🗣️ Hear @stimac_igor's first thoughts after the #BlueTigers' 🐯 arrival in Doha 🇶🇦#AsianCup2023 🏆 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/1v9NgMpaSt
Injury Woes
However, India will face the challenge without key players Anwar Ali, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Ashique Kuruniyan, and Rohit Kumar, sidelined due to injuries.
Historical Perspective
As India takes the pitch in this prestigious tournament, it marks the country’s sixth appearance in the AFC Asian Cup, showcasing their football prowess since the tournament’s inception in 1956. India has participated in the AFC Asian Cup five times since its debut in 1956, in 1964, 1984, 2011, 2019, and 2023, a journey filled with triumphs, challenges, and unwavering passion for the beautiful game.
Where to Watch AFC Asian Cup 2023 Live in India: Streaming & Broadcast Details
The AFC Asian Cup 2023 games will be broadcasted live on Sports18 Network’s TV channels in India. You can also watch the live stream of the AFC Asian Cup 2023 on the JioCinema app and website.
