Doha, Qatar: Eight teams bid farewell to the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 following the conclusion of the group stage on Thursday. While their journey may have ended prematurely, the sides did their best and will - undoubtedly - already be planning to feature in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.
Following the eight sides every step of the way in Qatar 2023 were their fans and the-AFC.com pays tribute to the supporters who went to great lengths to push their favourite teams.
Hong Kong fans and supporters are also out in force tonight to support their team!
— The Peninsula Qatar (@PeninsulaQatar) January 19, 2024
Pics by Rajan Vadakkemuriyil/The Peninsula
???? Khalifa International Stadium#Qatar2023 #AsianCup2023 #HayyaAsia #HKGvIRN #HongKong #Iran pic.twitter.com/20UbwKKRWu
China came up just short in Group A as two points proved not enough for them to advance but their fans were in full voice at all three matches.
Lebanon also did not advance from Group A but their valiant efforts won the hearts of their fans, whose support from the stands was immense.
India were equally well supported with their fans turning out in droves for all their Group B matches, turning heads with their colourful attire and passionate support.
Lebanese and Chinese fans cheer for their national teams at the Al-Thumama Stadium during the #LBNvCHN match. Photos by AFP #Qatar2023 #AsianCup2023 #HayyaAsia pic.twitter.com/8UevTyh1J6
— The Peninsula Qatar (@PeninsulaQatar) January 17, 2024
Hong Kong, China’s return to the AFC Asian Cup for the first time since 1968 captured the imagination of their fans, with a sizeable number making the trip to Qatar as did the Vietnam fans, who cheered on passionately as the Southeast Asian side went head to head with former champions Japan and Iraq, as well as regional rivals Indonesia, in Group D.
Malaysia saved their best for last, fighting back to hold Korea Republic to a 3-3 draw in their final Group E match and it was just reward for their travelling band of supporters who never stopped willing their team on.
Oman and Kyrgyzstan cancelled each other out by playing to a 1-1 draw on their final Group F tie and it meant heartbreak for both sets of supporters, who had stood solidly behind their respective teams throughout the group stage.
