Iraq is the ninth Asian representative to participate in the 2026 World Cup - Photo: AFP
From a meager 4.5 slots previously, the AFC now boasts 8.5 slots. With Iraq's nail-biting victory over Bolivia in the recent intercontinental play-off, the official number has reached 9.
"The leading bird"
Among these nine representatives, Japan and South Korea remain the most highly anticipated contenders. Following the 2022 World Cup, both teams have made significant strides in terms of their playing style and squad quality, boasting numerous stars competing in top European leagues.
South Korea is in Group A along with host nation Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic. This is considered a manageable but also somewhat risky group. Mexico is always extremely strong when competing in North America, while the Czech Republic possesses a scientific playing style characteristic of Europe.
However, with the resilience of a team that reached the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup and an unyielding spirit, Son Heung-min and his teammates can certainly aim for second place in the group or at least a guaranteed spot in the next round.
Meanwhile, Japan in Group F will face a formidable challenge in the form of the Netherlands. Their other two opponents, Sweden and Tunisia, are also not easy to beat.
However, the technical skill, discipline, and incredibly quick transitions of the "Blue Samurai" had previously caused Germany and Spain heartbreak four years ago. Facing opponents who tend to play a physically strong game like Sweden is an opportunity for Japan to demonstrate their cunning and tactical flexibility.
At the same time, Scotland's excellent form in recent friendly matches, including a victory over England, shows great confidence in the "Land of the Rising Sun" team.
What opportunities are there for Asia?
Overall, the draw results show that Asian representatives this year have been placed in very diverse groups.
In Group D, Australia will face hosts USA, Paraguay, and Türkiye. This is a group with teams of fairly similar skill levels. Australia, with their pragmatic playing style and abundant physical fitness, is perfectly capable of creating an upset if they can capitalize on their opportunities against Türkiye or Paraguay.
Iran (Group G) is perhaps the easiest Asian team to play for, facing only New Zealand and a transitional Egypt, alongside the giant Belgium. They have their greatest chance ever to advance beyond the World Cup group stage for the first time.
Conversely, the biggest challenge will be for Saudi Arabia (Group H) as they are grouped with Spain and Uruguay. Although they defeated Argentina in the previous World Cup, it will be very difficult for the West Asian representative to advance far.
The Iraqi team (Group I), having advanced through the play-offs, will have a memorable experience facing the reigning runners-up, France. The presence of Senegal and Norway (with striker Erling Haaland) makes this group a real "nightmare." However, experiencing the World Cup atmosphere after 40 years is already a resounding success for Iraqi football.
Fresh breezes
The highlight of Asian football at this World Cup is the emergence of newcomers like Uzbekistan and Jordan.
Uzbekistan (Group K), after many years of missing out, has finally qualified. However, the draw has placed them in a group with Portugal and Colombia. This will be the toughest test of the Central Asian team's progress.
Similarly, Jordan (Group J) will face world champions Argentina. Although their chances of advancing are not high against opponents like Austria or Algeria, the opportunity to compete against Lionel Messi is an invaluable reward for their perseverance.
Finally, there's the host of the previous World Cup - Qatar (Group B). Placed in a group with Canada, Switzerland, and Bosnia & Herzegovina, Qatar has a chance to redeem itself after its disappointing performance in 2022.
Having nine representatives at the 2026 World Cup is a boost for the development of Asian football. It not only brings significant financial resources from television rights and advertising but also gives players from the continent more opportunities to gain regular experience in top-level world football.
Asia has just made history by having nine teams qualify for the World Cup finals for the first time. This is the perfect springboard to affirm the strong transformation of football in this "underdeveloped" region after decades of efforts to close the gap with the rest of the world.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/trang-moi-cua-bong-da-chau-a-20260403100812888.htm
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