The race to reach the 2027 AFC Asian Cup is entering its decisive phase, with four of the six groups in the third qualifying round still wide open ahead of the final matchday in March 2026.
Who will join the likes of host nation Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and others when the tournament begins on 7 January 2027?
Here are how things stand right now:
Group A
Tajikistan and the Philippines are level on 13 points but separated by just one goal at the top of the standings. After their earlier encounter ended 2-2 in June, the reverse fixture in March next year will be a winners-take-all affair.
Group B
Lebanon sit two points clear of Yemen, with Brunei and Bhutan already out of the running. With the top two meeting on the final day, Lebanon only need a draw in front of their home fans, while Yemen must claim an away win to qualify.
Group C
Singapore sealed top spot after a dramatic 2-1 win over Hong Kong on November 18. The result gave the Lions the edge on head-to-head and booked their first Asian Cup appearance since 1984.
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Group D
Turkmenistan and Thailand are locked on 12 points at the top, but the advantage belongs to the former thanks to their 3-1 victory over the Thais in June. Facing off on the final matchday, Turkmenistan will just need to avoid a defeat, while it is more complicated for Thailand as they must win by at least three goals to overturn the head-to-head deficit.
Group E
Syria booked their ticket in October with two games to spare, finishing comfortably ahead of Myanmar, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Group F
Malaysia lead the group with a perfect record of five wins from five. However, off-field controversies surrounding the eligibility of several Harimau Malaya naturalised players could lead to sanctions from FIFA and AFC, opening the door for second-placed Vietnam to claim the group’s qualification spot instead.
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