Asian Cup schedule confirmed despite Middle East tensions

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 10:01 · Archive

The 2027 AFC Asian Cup will begin on 7 January in Saudi Arabia, with Australia facing Singapore on 9 January.

The Asian Football Confederation confirmed the full schedule for the 2027 Asian Cup on Monday, setting match times and locations for the month-long tournament across Saudi Arabia. The competition features 24 teams in six groups playing at eight venues in Riyadh, Jeddah and Khobar.

Australia begins Group D against Singapore on 9 January in Khobar, follows with a match against Iraq on 14 January, and completes group play against Tajikistan on 19 January. The tournament opens on 7 January with Saudi Arabia versus the Palestinian team in Riyadh. The final is scheduled for 5 February at the King Fahd Sports City Stadium in Riyadh. Iran will face China, Syria and Kyrgyzstan in Group C.

Organisers released the schedule despite recent tensions in the region. Tournament organising committee spokesman Muhammed Alghamdi told the AFC at a meeting in Tokyo that "daily life is ongoing in Saudi Arabia" and that the organising committee would be ready. The AFC said venue allocation and kick-off times were chosen to meet broadcast requirements and enhance spectator attendance.

How it is being reported

• Officials set schedule for troubled Asian CupAustralia will kick off its campaign against Singapore in the tournament that's been clouded by tensions in the Middle East.The West Australian · 26 Oct, 09:26
• Officials set schedule for troubled Asian CupAustralia will kick off its campaign against Singapore in the tournament that's been clouded by tensions in the Middle East.Perth Now · 26 Oct, 09:26

In this story: Australia · Singapore · Saudi Arabia · Asian Football Confederation · Iraq · Iran · China · Graham Arnold

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