Iran to Meet Malaysia in AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup Qualification Opener
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iran will start the qualification for the AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup Thailand 2026 on Wednesday, facing host Malaysia.
Iran is drawn in Group F along with Japan, Guam, and Malaysia.
The Group F competition will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from August 6 to 10.
"For us, every match is like a final; all games are equally important. Malaysia benefits from home advantage and has its own unique conditions. Japan is the top team in Asia, and we should not underestimate Guam,” Iran head coach Niloofar Ardalan said.
“Our real goal is to build a cohesive team — one that enters competitions with strong mental and technical preparedness. Our training goes beyond physical fitness; it also emphasizes decision-making under match conditions and understanding various tactical situations,” she added.
