Courtesy: New Straits Times (https://www.nst.com.my)
KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian version of UEFA’s Nations League could be introduced soon in order to improve the quality of international matches in the continent.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC), however, will have to conduct a comprehensive study before it can follow the footsteps of UEFA
AFC secretary general Datuk Windsor Paul John is open to the idea of introducing an Asian Nations League using UEFA’s format.
“The idea (Asian Nations League) is really good but we need to revise all AFC competitions in the near future to ensure it is in line with the Asian body’s vision and mission.
“The probability of AFC coming up with such a competition is possible but it needs thorough assessment first before it can be implemented,” said Windsor.
UEFA introduced the Nations League this season, replacing friendly matches, allowing nations to play against equally ranked teams.
A total of 55 teams, separated into four leagues (A,B,C,D) based on their rankings, are competing in UEFA’s Nations League.
It is a move to improve the quality of international football and reduce the number of meaningless friendlies. UEFA came up with the idea in 2011.
Within each league, four teams will be promoted at the end of the cycle, while four teams will be relegated. They will then play at their new level in the next competition, which starts in 2020.
The winners of the four groups in League A will qualify for the Final Four competition.
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