Asia set for football changes: AFC preparing its own Nations League from 2030

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is considering the creation of its own Nations League, which could launch as early as 2030. According to ESPN, the new tournament would form part of a sweeping reform of the qualification systems for the World Cup and the Asian Cup.

The competition is expected to be held every two years and feature three divisions. The first two tiers would each consist of 18 national teams, while the third would include 11 sides. As in the UEFA Nations League, promotion and relegation would operate between the divisions.

The new tournament could also have a direct impact on World Cup qualifying. In cycles linked to the global showpiece, the six best teams in the first division would automatically secure berths at the tournament. The teams finishing seventh through 10th would compete in an additional playoff for the remaining two spots. Another national team would have the chance to reach the World Cup via the intercontinental playoff.

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At the same time, the Nations League is expected to become the primary qualification route for the Asian Cup starting in 2030. According to the plan presented, the first World Cup qualifying cycle under the new system would take place in the 2032/33 season.