King Fahd Stadium to host Asian Cup 2027 final

KUALA LUMPUR: King Fahd Sports City Stadium will host both the opening and closing matches of the AFC Asian Cup 2027, officials announced on Monday, as Saudi Arabia prepares for the continental showpiece ahead of the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Saudi Arabia will stage the Asian Cup from January 7 to February 5, 2027, in what is being viewed as a major precursor to hosting the 2034 World Cup.

In a statement issued in Kuala Lumpur, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said the Riyadh-based King Fahd stadium would provide the backdrop for the tournament’s opening match, featuring hosts and three-time Asian champions Saudi Arabia national football team, as well as the final.

The 70,000-plus capacity venue — popularly known as “The Tent” due to its roof design inspired by traditional Bedouin dwellings — will also stage four group-stage matches, one round-of-16 fixture and a quarter-final before the final in early February.

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It is the largest among the eight stadiums selected to host matches during the tournament.

In addition to Riyadh, matches will also be played in Jeddah and Al Khobar.

The AFC said match pairings and kick-off times will be confirmed during the final draw scheduled for April 11 in Riyadh.

Defending champions Qatar national football team lifted the trophy in the previous edition, which was staged in Qatar following its relocation from China due to the country’s Covid-19 policies at the time.