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Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has congratulated the final three teams – North Korea, Philippines and Yemen – for sealing their spots at the biggest ever AFC Asian Cup.
After more than three years of captivating action, the final day of the 2019 AFC Asian Cup – UAE Final Round Qualifiers culminated in an epic night of football with Philippines sealing their first-ever berth for the ultimate stage as well as Yemen, who have advanced for the first time since the country’s unification.
Philippines clinched their historic qualification after overcoming Tajikistan 2-1 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila on Tuesday to take pole position in Group F. The result also confirmed Yemen’s passage to the UAE with Abraham Mebratu’s men benefiting from a superior head-to-head record over Tajikistan.
The West Asians, who participated as South Yemen in the 1976 edition, maintained their unbeaten record in Group F after defeating Nepal 2-1 at the Suheim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, Qatar.
Earlier in the day, North Korea secured their third consecutive appearance in the AFC Asian Cup after a convincing 2-0 home victory over Hong Kong to finish as runners-up in Group B behind Lebanon.
Shaikh Salman said, “I would like to congratulate DPR Korea, Philippines and Yemen for securing their places in the ultimate stage – the crowning jewel of Asian football. Special praise must also go to the DPR Korea FA, Philippines Football Federation and Yemen Football Association for strengthening and building the foundations for football to scale new heights.”
“I must also convey my appreciation to all the participating Member Associations for their commitment to raise the level of competition and for providing us with a memorable three years of captivating football.”
“With the expansion from 16 to 24 teams, I am confident we will witness a true celebration of Asian football that is in keeping with the tournament slogan – Bringing Asia Together – and will remain in our memories for many years to come. I wish all the teams the very best of luck in the draw in the UAE.”
With the teams confirmed, the attention now shifts to the tournament’s official final draw on May 4, 2018 in Dubai, UAE. Teams will be placed into four pots based on the upcoming FIFA World Ranking, which will be released on April 12, 2018.
