Hosts UAE have been placed in Group A along with India, Thailand and Bahrain for the AFC Asian Cup which will be held next year.
The Official Draw for the tournament, the biggest tournament in Asia, was held at the Armani Hotel at the iconic Burj Khalifa on Friday night, and it saw the 24 teams spread across the six groups. The tournament takes place from January 5 to February 1 next year at eight different venues in four cities - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain and Sharjah.
Here's the complete #AsianCup2019 Final Draw! Who do you think will be champions? 🏆 pic.twitter.com/adGfBZJXPb
— #AsianCup2019 (@afcasiancup) May 4, 2018
The UAE, coached by former Japan manager Alberto Zaccheroni, will play the tournament opener against Bahrain at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi on January 5.
The tournament will see 51 matches being played with the total prize purse on offer increased to $15 million, making it the richest competition in Asian football. The winners stand to earn $5 million.
The winners will also take away a glittering new trophy, replacing the one since the inaugural edition in 1956.
Share This Post