The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has postponed the 2027 Asian Cup by approximately one year. The tournament, originally scheduled for January 7 to February 5, 2027, will now run from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028. The AFC cited exceptional circumstances, including significant logistical complexities and travel disruptions caused by the current situation in the Middle East, as the reason for the rescheduling.
This decision impacts the timeline for Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu, whose tenure was set to conclude after the tournament. Japan Football Association President Tsuneyasu Miyamoto explained the rationale behind extending Moriyasu's contract through the event.
"Now that the 2026 North America World Cup has ended, what I consider important is winning the Asian Cup," Miyamoto said. "To compete on the global stage, we must first demonstrate our strength by winning in Asia."
Moriyasu added, "During my remaining contract period, I want to do my best for Japan’s victory, the development of football, and what I believe is the right path."
The Samurai Blue are in strong recent form, unbeaten in their last four matches with three wins and a draw. Their most recent result was a 2-1 victory over New Zealand on October 5. Their next fixture is a high-profile home match against Brazil on November 14. The team's fixtures will require adjustment due to the postponement.
Ko Iwaiwa, the current U-23 national team coach, is set to take over as senior head coach after the Asian Cup. Despite the delay, Japan's objective remains unchanged: to win a record-extending fifth Asian Cup title. Japan has won the tournament four times, in 1992, 2000, 2004, and 2011.
The squad will travel to Singapore in November to face Brazil and Paraguay, with the squad list for those matches scheduled for announcement on November 4. Japan's first Asian Cup group stage match is scheduled for December 30. The AFC will present the new tournament dates to FIFA for approval.
Background and full detail: english.kyodonews.net
