Pakistan’s path to the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 is now clear as the official draw for the qualifiers was held at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.
With 44 teams competing across 11 groups, Pakistan has been placed in a challenging Group G alongside Iraq, Cambodia (hosts), and Oman for a place in the AFC U23 Asian Cup.
The qualifiers will be played from September 1 to 9, 2025, with each group hosted by one of the participating teams. The 11 group winners and four best second-placed teams will qualify for the finals, where they will join hosts Saudi Arabia in January 2026.
This campaign will be crucial for Pakistan’s U23 side, who are aiming to make a mark on the continental stage after years of underrepresentation at youth level. The tournament also serves as a key pathway to full international recognition for many emerging players.
Full Group Breakdown for AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers
| Group | Teams |
|---|---|
| A | Jordan (H), Turkmenistan, Chinese Taipei, Bhutan |
| B | Japan, Kuwait, Myanmar (H), Afghanistan |
| C | Vietnam (H), Yemen, Singapore, Bangladesh |
| D | Australia, China PR (H), Timor-Leste, Northern Mariana Islands |
| E | Uzbekistan, Palestine, Kyrgyz Republic (H), Sri Lanka |
| F | Thailand (H), Malaysia, Lebanon, Mongolia |
| G | Iraq, Cambodia (H), Oman, Pakistan |
| H | Qatar (H), Bahrain, India, Brunei Darussalam |
| I | UAE (H), IR Iran, Hong Kong, China, Guam |
| J | Korea Republic, Indonesia (H), Laos, Macau |
| K | Tajikistan (H), Syria, Philippines, Nepal |
With the AFC U23 Asian Cup draw now finalized, Pakistan’s coaching staff and football authorities will begin finalizing preparations, including training camps and talent scouting. This qualifying cycle is an ideal opportunity for the newly elected body to form a team to build chemistry, gain experience, and compete against strong regional opponents.
The group stage promises competitive matches and a chance for Pakistan’s next generation to shine. The nation’s football fans will be hoping for a historic qualification and signs of long-term progress.
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