2026 AFC U23 Championship Final: Cementing the Continental Number One Status

The 2026 AFC U23 Championship final between U23 Japan and U23 China is not only a battle for the continental crown but also holds historic significance for the team from the Land of the Rising Sun. As the reigning champions, U23 Japan has a golden opportunity to set a record by winning their third U23 Asian title.

U23 Japan enters the final equipped with resilience, experience, and a squad depth that surpasses their rivals. This year’s Japanese team is not solely reliant on individual skills; they showcase a perfect balance between attack and defense. Their high pressing style, rapid ball circulation, and tactical flexibility allow them to dominate matches against any opponent.

Among the squad at this U23 Asian Championship, alongside familiar J-League players, Japan includes eight talented university students who perform with remarkable composure despite their student status.

Under the guidance of coach Go Oiwa, the “Blue Samurai” have demonstrated superior tactical awareness, game control, and technical quality, even without fielding their strongest lineup.

If they defeat U23 China, Japan will become the first team in history to successfully defend their U23 Asian Championship title and secure their third overall victory.

On the other hand, U23 China is crafting the most remarkable story of the 2026 U23 Asian Championship. Making their debut in the final, the East Asian squad has exceeded all expectations with their journey.

U23 China has impressed audiences with disciplined organization, tight defensive structure, and relentless fighting spirit. Their multi-layered defense, quick transitions, and intense concentration throughout matches have helped them overcome higher-rated opponents while keeping a clean sheet since the tournament began.

Statistics show that U23 China has maintained a clean sheet in their last five matches. Only U23 Saudi Arabia in the 2022 tournament managed to keep a clean sheet throughout the entire campaign.

The Chinese players have demonstrated notable mental growth. They are a resilient team, never panicking and willing to endure pressure while patiently waiting for their moment.

U23 China is also very skilled at disrupting opponents’ play, as seen in their victories over U23 Uzbekistan in the quarterfinals and U23 Vietnam in the semifinals.

Facing a U23 Japan team rated stronger in many aspects, the East Asian side hopes to leverage the element of surprise, which has become their trademark in this tournament.

The 2026 AFC U23 Championship final promises a clash of contrasting styles: Japan’s proactive control against China’s counter-attacking defense. It is also a moment for Japan to reaffirm their status as the new "king" of Asian youth football. For China, it represents a chance to write a new chapter and spark hope for a football culture marked by ups and downs.

Theoretically, the reigning champions U23 Japan are favored over U23 China. However, Japan is expected to face a tough challenge as China is not an easy opponent to overcome.

The 2026 AFC U23 Championship final will kick off at 10 PM on January 24th. One side represents sustained excellence and stability, while the other symbolizes a surprising rise. Although U23 China is highly motivated, the experience and class of the Blue Samurai in big matches usually make a significant difference.

Projected starting lineups for U23 China and U23 Japan
U23 China: Li Hao, Hu Hetao, Wumitijiang, Liu Haofan, Xiang Yuwang, Peng Xiao, Bao Shengxin, Wang Bohao, Yang Alex, Chen Zeshi, Kuai Jiwen
U23 Japan: Araki, Mori, Okabe, Ichihara, Umeki, Ozeki, Pgura, Sato, Ishibashi, Yokohama, Nwadike

Pre-match comments:
“We are very excited. This is a historic match and a big dream. We want to win the championship even though it will be very difficult. Reaching the final is already special for us, but now we want to go further.” - Coach Antonio Puche.

“We came to this tournament with a very young squad, which was already a challenge, but we have done well. The players are ready and will give their best on the field.” - Coach Go Oiwa.