Third Round of 2026 Asian Qualifiers Kicks Off with 18 Teams
With expanded slots, Asia's top teams and rising contenders vie for a place in the tournament.
- Indonesia aims to continue its remarkable rise under coach Shin Tae-Yong.
- South Korea begins a new era with Hong Myung-Bo at the helm.
- Japan's performance remains unpredictable under Hajime Moriyasu.
- North Korea returns to the qualifiers after a cycle of absence.
- Jordan emerges as a dark horse after a strong showing in the Asian Cup.
Al Jazeera 
ESPN 
The Japan Times 
Associated Press 
The Guardian 
South China Morning Post 
