Saudi Arabia 2027 Asian Cup schedule confirmed by Asian Football Confederation

The Asian Football Confederation has confirmed the dates, kick-off times and host venues for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, with Saudi Arabia staging the tournament for the first time.

The 19th edition of the competition will begin in Riyadh on 7 January, when Saudi Arabia face Palestine at 20:00 at King Fahd Sports City Stadium.

The venue, which has a capacity of 72,000, will also host the final on 5 February. The title decider will kick off at 20:00, with the new champions of Asia crowned in the Saudi capital.

The group stage will feature 24 teams and conclude on 20 January. The last-16 matches will begin two days later, on 22 January.

The quarter-finals are scheduled for 28 and 29 January, while the semi-finals will take place on 1 and 2 February.

A total of 51 matches will be played across eight stadiums in three Saudi cities. Riyadh will provide five venues, with two stadiums in Jeddah and one in Al Khobar.

The Asian Football Confederation said the final timetable was developed with the tournament’s key commercial and broadcast requirements in mind. It also took account of local arrangements intended to increase attendances and improve the experience for supporters.

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2027 tournament marks the first time the country has staged the Asian Cup. The opening match and final will both be held at King Fahd Sports City Stadium in Riyadh.

The competition will run from 7 January to 5 February, with the knockout stages following the conclusion of the group matches and leading to the final in the capital.