Seol Young-woo of South Korea expressed disappointment after their 0-1 loss to South Africa at the 2026 World Cup on June 2 in Guadalupe, Mexico. It was a mixed opening for Asia. South Korea started strong with a win against the Czech Republic. Over four days, teams from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) remained undefeated, mainly with draws. Yet, fortunes changed on the tournament’s sixth day.
The expanded World Cup featured nine AFC teams. After the group stage, most were eliminated: South Korea, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Uzbekistan. Only Australia and Japan progressed to the round of 32, but both eventually exited, marking the AFC’s full elimination, following only the Oceania Football Confederation, represented solely by New Zealand.
Japan’s national team faced a blow against Brazil, losing 2-1. The performance was not only disappointing for individual nations but for Asian football as a whole. Despite more Asian players in European clubs and increased investment in the sport, the AFC managed just three wins in 29 matches. For the sixth consecutive World Cup, no AFC team advanced past the knockout stage.
Paul Williams from The Asian Game noted that while Asian football can be competitive, there remains a gap with the rest of the world. Analysts are questioning what’s holding Asian teams back and when might they reach success similar to other continents at the World Cup.
Dissecting Asia’s World Cup Performance
South Korea, despite being highly ranked, struggled after its initial win. Disorganization led to losses against Mexico and South Africa. The team’s poor cohesion, ineffective tactics, and managerial issues contributed to its downfall. Accusations of favoritism prompted investigations, leading to resignations from coach Hong Myung-bo and Korea Football Association head Chung Mong-gyu.
Qatar and Saudi Arabia fell short despite significant football investments. Jordan and Uzbekistan, World Cup newcomers, did not win but had notable moments, like scoring against top teams Argentina and Colombia. Iraq faced a difficult group, contending with Senegal, France, and Norway. Japan and Australia’s campaigns ended dramatically, with Japan losing to Brazil and Australia exiting after a shootout against Egypt.
Iran faced unique challenges due to U.S. travel restrictions amid the Iran-U.S. conflict, which disrupted team logistics and preparation. Despite all matches ending in draws, Iran’s situation highlighted the obstacles beyond the pitch.
A Shared Love and Shared Struggle
Asia’s World Cup challenges don’t reflect a lack of passion. Football holds deep cultural roots, especially among Gulf nations, influenced historically by European colonialism. Abdullah Al-Arian of Georgetown University in Qatar described its role in national identity and culture in the region.
Ben Weinberg, a former sports researcher, highlighted that professional football developed later in Asia compared to Europe and South America. The AFC, formed in 1954, manages 47 diverse member associations, presenting a unique governance challenge. Decisions about resource allocation are complex, between raising overall standards and focusing on high-potential teams.
A Demand for More International Experience
Experience outside Asia is vital for AFC teams. While more Asian players are joining European leagues, experts stress the importance of gaining international experience to succeed on the global stage. Williams emphasized the need for players to compete in top leagues to prepare for World Cups.
Arya Nourizadeh suggested more intra-Asian matches. The AFC’s Asian Cup features 24 teams, but a broader Nations League could enhance competitive opportunities.
The Road Ahead for Asian Football
Asian teams show potential, though global standards are rising. Japan stands out with a long-term vision to win the World Cup by 2050, targeting improvements through club expansion, youth programs, and coaching investments.
Williams pointed to Japan’s example, advocating for grassroots and coaching investments to develop football. It’s uncertain when a nation outside Europe or South America will win the World Cup, but Williams believes it’s a prospect worth anticipating. He appreciates the World Cup’s group stage for its global representation and hopes to witness a breakthrough win by an Asian team.
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