South Korea’s U-23 team targets semifinals in 2026 AFC Asian Cup opener
South Korea’s U-23 team is preparing for the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup with high ambitions. Manager Lee Min-sung has set a target of reaching at least the semifinals, building on the squad’s recent strong performances. Their campaign begins with a tough opener against Iran on Wednesday.
The tournament features 16 teams divided into four groups, with the top two from each advancing to the quarterfinals. Defending champions Japan will compete in Group B, while South Korea enters as a former winner, having lifted the trophy in 2020.
The Korean squad includes five players who helped the U-20 team reach the 2023 World Cup semifinals. Their defence has been particularly solid, keeping clean sheets in all three qualifiers for this tournament.
South Korea’s group includes Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Jordan, and Kyrgyzstan. After their first match against Iran, they will face the remaining teams in Group A as they aim to progress beyond the knockout stages.
With a mix of experience and defensive strength, South Korea enters the competition as a serious contender. Their opening clash against Iran will test their readiness, while their broader goal remains a deep run into the tournament. The team’s recent form and past success suggest they could be a key force in this year’s edition.
