The upcoming AFC Asian Cup, set to be the 18th installment of the premier international men's football tournament in Asia, will be hosted by Qatar.

Originally scheduled for 2023, the tournament has been rescheduled to take place in 2024, specifically from January 12 to February 10. This adjustment aims to leverage slightly cooler weather conditions in Qatar during these months.

Featuring the participation of the continent's 24 strongest national teams, the matches will unfold across nine stadiums previously used in the last World Cup.

Japan holds the record for the most wins in the AFC Asian Cup, having secured the title four times in 1992, 2000, 2004, and 2011. Meanwhile, both Saudi Arabia and Iran have each claimed the championship three times.

Predicting the winner of this highly competitive tournament is always a challenging task. The unpredictability was evident in the 2019 edition when Qatar emerged victorious, surprising many football enthusiasts.

The competition is likely to be even tougher this time around and these three teams are adjusted the favorites to land the coveted prize this year.

Japan

Japan are regarded as one of the favorites to clinch the title for the record fifth time. Following their remarkable performance at the 2022 World Cup, where they secured victories against powerhouses Germany and Spain to lead their group, the Samurai Blue have sustained their progress under the guidance of head coach Hajime Moriyasu, now entering his sixth year at the helm.

The momentum from their World Cup campaign carried into 2023 as well. Victories over Peru, Turkey, and Canada showcased their continued prowess, along with a stunning 4-1 friendly win over Germany.

With the side having some top players like Ko Itakura, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Wataru Endō and Takumi Minamino playing in top European sides they are undoubtedly one of the favorites.

South Korea

Anticipation is high for a potential clash between long-standing rivals Japan and South Korea in the final, a scenario favored by many football pundits.

South Korea, despite their last tournament victory dating back to 1960, have remained a formidable force in Asian football, featuring in four finals since then and consistently maintaining its prominence in the continent. Under the guidance of head coach Jürgen Klinsmann, the German World Cup winner, the team has found a winning rhythm.

They have had a brilliant run in the recent World Cup qualifiers where they have scored 19 goals and conceded just once. They have managed five straight wins so far. Key figures such as the defender Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich and the prolific Tottenham captain, Son Heung-min, are expected to deliver standout performances.

Additionally, the goal-scoring prowess of Wolves' Hwang Hee-chan and the skillful winger Lee Kang-in from PSG add further depth and quality to South Korea's attacking arsenal.

Australia

The Aussies are also having a great run of form in recent times and could be another big challenger. They won the Asia Cup competition back in 2015 and look to be in good form once again. Australia, under the guidance of Graham Arnold, exceeded expectations by advancing to the round of 16 in the 2022 World Cup.

They have announced a relatively young squad for the tournament. However, the team will boast of some top young talents plying their trade across the Bundesliga, Championship, and Scottish Leagues.