AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023: Media Praises Exceptional Organization of Continental Tournament

Doha, January 17 (QNA) - The State of Qatar's hosting of the AFC Asian Cup 2023 continues to garner widespread media attention and praise for the exceptional organization of this major football event, bringing together the best national teams across Asia in a fierce competition. In addition to the tournament, various events in Qatar's tourist areas aim to enrich the experience for visitors.
Official spokesman for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Nidal Bahran affirmed that the current edition of the Asian Cup in Qatar is exceptional, and will be remembered by future generations.
He added, in a statement on Al-Mamlaka TV, that the AFC dubbed this tournament, hosted by Qatar, as the "historic unprecedented' edition" for several reasons, including the fact that it is the first time in its history that the tournament is played on nine World Cup-quality stadiums.
He further stated that this edition also witnessed a large presence of female referees, and for the first time at the continental level, football matches are being played with the semi-automatic offside system, making it exceptionally outstanding.
Bahran said that the opening match between Qatar and Lebanon witnessed a record-breaking attendance, with more than 80,000 spectators. Moreover, this edition features a significant number of referees, totaling 73, in addition to 1,200 media professionals from various media and digital platforms, broadcasting the matches to over 160 countries.
Bahran concluded by highlighting Qatar's ability to win the bid shortly after China withdrew from hosting the Asian Cup proves that Qatar is the best and most suitable alternative to host this prestigious tournament.
Meanwhile, Jordanian coach Daian Saleh noted that the world was in dire need of this generous humanitarian gesture made by the Qatari national team captain when he gave the honor of reciting the tournament's oath to the Palestinian team captain. The opening match conveyed a message that Palestine is in our hearts, and the Palestinian cause remains our top priority, Saleh added.
He noted that Qatar respected the sentiments of the Palestinian people and organized an elegant yet modest celebration that emphasized values of peace, justice, and wisdom through a performance based on a missing chapter from the story of "Kalila and Dimna." Abu Dhabi Sports Channel continues to capture the unique atmosphere surrounding the Asian Cup, showcasing special field reports that highlight the cultural and tourist landmarks of Doha.
A report featured on the "Doha Asia" program noted that Qatar is filled with fantastic places that astonish visitors, making their stay in Qatar memorable. The report urged visitors to not miss out on the charm of Souq Waqif when visiting, stating that it blends the past and authenticity with modernity and urbanization, with a history spanning over 250 years.
The Souq boasts lively restaurants serving traditional Qatari dishes, handicraft shops, and much more, it added.
In a message from the streets of Doha, the program's presenter Mohamed Al Ahmad described Souq Waqif as a diverse and deep market. He mentioned that next to it there is the Gold Souq, a large and comprehensive market known for its beautiful and elegant buildings, and a Carpet Souq, which offers various types of carpets. (QNA)