Goa, Oct. 26 -- Saudi Arabia has confirmed that the 2027 AFC Asian Cup will begin on January 7 despite growing security concerns following a series of attacks on the kingdom and escalating regional tensions.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced the tournament schedule on Monday, confirming that hosts Saudi Arabia will face Palestine in the opening Group A match in Riyadh. The 29-day competition will conclude with the final on February 5 at the 72,000-seat King Fahd Sports City Stadium, which will also host the opening fixture.

The tournament will feature 24 national teams competing across 51 matches at eight venues. Five stadiums in Riyadh, two in Jeddah and one in Al-Khobar will host the continental championship.

However, ...