2023 Asian Cup: 50 days to go

The 2023 Asian Cup was due to be held in China but was moved to Qatar because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Qatar could not host the games then due to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, so despite the name, the tournament was pushed over to 2024.

The Gulf nation is ready to host another major international competition following the historic FIFA World Cup 2022. One million football fans arrived just over a year ago, and history was made.

The Asian Cup has also played a significant part in the country's recent footballing history. Qatar hosted the competition in 1988 and 2011. And again in 2019, when they lifted the coveted trophy and crowned tournament winners. The Maroons open the games in a match against Lebanon at the iconic Lusail Stadium. The arena will be remembered forever for an iconic World Cup final culminating with Lionel Messi lifting the trophy.

The world-class Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium will host seven matches during the tournament. Ahmad Al Qatami is the Venue Manager, who told FOOTBALL NOW that the competition is a chance for fans to reminisce on the success of the FIFA World Cup:

"We are looking at the AFC as another opportunity to see the crowds of people we really missed. We all miss the World Cup. We had an amazing time. So, as a continuation of the World Cup, we must have AFC matches with total fan attendance again in big stadiums. The supporters will again enjoy all the facilities in Qatar. The AFC matches will be during wintertime so that a pleasant atmosphere will be felt inside the stadiums."

The volunteer programme brings many people together, all from different backgrounds and nationalities. They all come together with one focus in mind: giving back to their community.

Jassim al Jassim, The Asian Cup's CEO, volunteered