Beijing: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced that the Chinese Football Association has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2027 AFC U-20 Championship. According to National Iraqi News Agency, the tournament, first held in 1959, will mark its 43rd edition in 2027. China, the sole candidate, is set to host the top 16 teams in Asia for the second consecutive time, following the successful 2025 edition in Shenzhen, held from February 12 to March 1. Australia is the defending champion, having clinched their first youth-level title by defeating Saudi Arabia 5-4 on penalties, following a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time in the final. The qualifiers for the 2027 AFC U-20 Championship are scheduled to commence in August 2026, with the finals slated for March 2027. The finals will also serve as the qualification pathway for Asian teams to the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, co-hosted by Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. South Korea remains the record holder with 12 titles, while Myanmar follows with seven.
