AFC Asian Cup 2011 Finals draw on April 23

AFC –  DOHA, The official draw for the AFC Asian Cup 2011 Finals will be held on Friday, April 23, 2010, here in the capital of Qatar.

This decision was taken at the 8th meeting of the AFC Asian Cup Organising Committee which met here on Monday under the chairmanship of AFC Vice-President Zhang Jilong.

The members discussed a number of issues to pave the path for the January 7-29 Asian football extravaganza next year. At the outset, Zhang welcomed new committee member Asad Taqi of Kuwait. “We are very happy to have Asad Taqi in our committee and his vast experience will help us as we aim to organise a good tournament,” said the chairman.

AFC President Mohamed Bin Hammam emphasised the importance of this particular meeting and called upon the members to explore ways and means to enhance the commercial image of the AFC Asian Cup. “We are delighted to see the progress in the organisation of the AFC Asian Cup. I am very happy to see the firm commitment of the Local Organising Committee,” said Bin Hammam.

“The AFC Asian Cup is the jewel in the crown of AFC competitions and we want to see the tournament develop commercially as well as from the view point of organisation.

The AFC President stressed on pricing the tickets in a range that would be affordable and attractive to all sections of the Qatari population.

“We want the AFC Asian Cup to be a catalyst for the development of grassroots football as well as leave a rich legacy behind for the host nation.”

The members discussed in detail the marketing and promotion plans, ticketing and pricing, the final draw preparations and the draw mechanics.

AFC ASIAN CUP 2011
TEAMS QUALIFIED TILL DATE

AFC Asian Cup 2007:  Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Korea Republic (All three teams have a bye to the main competition)
AFC Challenge Cup 2008: India
AFC Challenge Cup 2010: TBC
Hosts: Qatar
Group A:   Japan, Bahrain
Group B:   TBC on Match Day 6 on March 3
Group C:   Uzbekistan, UAE
Group D:   China PR, Syria
Group E:   IR Iran, TBC on Match Day 6 on March 3

Match day 6 is scheduled for 3rd March 2010.