Revolution in Asia: AFC Nations League tournament launched

The Asian Football Confederation has officially confirmed the launch of a completely new and exciting competition for the continent’s national teams — the AFC Nations League. The tournament is expected to replace FIFA-window friendlies and significantly increase the importance and intensity of every match.Tournament structure and leaguesAll 47 AFC member federations will take part in the new competition. Teams will be split into four main divisions based on strength and ranking: “League A”: the continent’s strongest teams; Uzbekistan’s national team is also expected to be among this elite. The best 4 teams will reach the semifinals and fight for the title. “Leagues B”, “C” and “D”: teams will battle here for promotion to a higher division. Promotion and relegation: every point mattersThe tournament’s main appeal is its dynamic system. Just like the UEFA Nations League, Asian national teams will face fierce competition to “survive” and “move up”: Group winners (or the best 3 teams) will be promoted to a higher league next season. Conversely, the 3 teams finishing last in their groups will be relegated to a lower league (there is no relegation below “League D”). Goals and outlookThrough this project, the AFC aims to address several key objectives: Balanced matchups: strong teams play strong teams, while mid-tier sides face opponents of a similar level, improving quality. Economic growth: the tournament’s higher status will boost interest from sponsors and broadcasters. A stable calendar: instead of meaningless FIFA-window friendlies, there will be official, high-ranking matches. The AFC is currently working on the full schedule and final format. Soon it will become clear who Uzbekistan’s first opponents in “League A” will be. Read “Zamin” on Telegram!