AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026: The Groups Are Set!
JAKARTA, Indonesia - The countdown to Asia's premier futsal tournament officially began today as the AFC Futsal Asian Cup™ Indonesia 2026 held its Official Draw in Jakarta. The ceremony delivered four thrilling groups, setting the stage for an intense competition from January 27 to February 7, 2026.
The 16 competing nations, featuring giants, former champions, and ambitious dark horses, now know their path to continental glory. The draw, held at the MNC Conference Hall, immediately generated buzz with the formation of a heavily-weighted Group D.
Group D: The 'Group of Death' Takes Centre Stage
Record champions and 13-time winners, the Islamic Republic of Iran, will have their hands full in what is widely regarded as the toughest section of the tournament.
Group D: Iran, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia
The title holders must navigate a fiercely competitive group that includes the rapidly rising Afghanistan, who impressed in the qualifiers, a determined Saudi Arabia, and a robust Malaysia side eager to make a statement. The opening match-ups in this group are highly anticipated, as every point will be crucial.
Group A: Host Nation's Challenging Welcome
Hosts Indonesia were placed in the head position of Group A, but the home support will need to be at its strongest to help them through a tricky first round.
Group A: Indonesia, Iraq, Kyrgyz Republic, South Korea
Indonesia faces a motivated Iraq side, who qualified with a perfect record, alongside the always-physical Kyrgyz Republic and the formidable South Korea. Securing a spot in the Quarter-Finals would be a significant achievement for the hosts.
Group C: Clash of Heavyweights
Group C sets up a tantalizing showdown between perennial powers and Central Asian rivals.
Group C: Japan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Australia
Four-time champions Japan will renew their rivalry with powerhouse Uzbekistan. Adding intrigue is Tajikistan, who broke new ground in the last edition, and a battle-hardened Australia. This group promises matches of the highest technical quality.
Group B: Southeast Asian Derby & West Asian Flair
The draw delivered an exciting derby in Group B, ensuring a passionate atmosphere.
Group B: Thailand, Vietnam, Kuwait, Lebanon
Runners-up from the last edition, Thailand, will face Southeast Asian rivals Vietnam in a must-watch fixture. They will also be wary of two West Asian contenders, Kuwait and Lebanon, both of whom are capable of causing upsets and will push the top seeds all the way.
The tournament is scheduled to run from January 27 to February 7, 2026. With the roadmap now clear, the 16 nations can finalize their preparations for what promises to be an electric edition of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup.