Football
By Aniket Kuila
9. Tajikistan
Their chance of a quarter-final at the Asian Cup shows they can definitely compete with top Asian teams.
8. North Korea
A country that reached the semifinal of the Asian Cup, implying that they are very competitive among their peers.
7. United Arab Emirates
Qualification strength is proven when making it to the Asian Cup quarterfinals.
6. South Korea
The Republic of Korea made a very strong quarter-final performance to reach the semifinals of the Asian Cup.
5. Japan
As a quarter-finalist in the Asian Cup, they proportionately boast of being a historically reputed strong youth team.
4. Indonesia
Going deeper into the Asian Cup and reaching the quarterfinals demonstrates more of their growing potential in Asia for youth football.
3. Uzbekistan
They are the champions of the AFC championship known as the U-17 Asian Cup 2025, which has proven that they are one of the best teams in the region.
2. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has proved its home strength by coming second in the Asian Cup. They also have the best defense and goalkeeping.
1. Qatar
Hosts of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 will automatically qualify for this championship and get to represent Asia.