DOHA: Qatar will host the delayed 2023 Asian Cup here from Friday, exactly after a year it hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Qatar go into the tournament as defending champions having picked up their first title five years ago with a surprise victory over four-times champions Japan in Abu Dhabi.
Following China’s withdrawal as hosts because of its rigid “zero-COVID” policy, Qatar will now also stage the tournament for the third time in its 68-year history.
China’s footballing gold rush has petered out since it won hosting rights and Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the most powerful forces in the game.
The Japanese will start the tournament as favourites with the decision to retain Hajime Moriyasu ensuring coaching continuity at the Samurai Blue.
