AFF U19 Championship 2025/26

The ASEAN U-19 Boys' Championship is the premier regional under-19 football tournament in Southeast Asia, organized by the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF). Originally established in 2002 as an Under-20 competition, the event was renamed to Under-19 in 2005 to align with international naming conventions. It operates as an invitational tournament rather than a league, meaning there is no system of promotion or relegation. All AFF member associations are eligible to participate, frequently joined by guest teams from outside the region such as Australia, Japan, Iran, and South Korea.

A defining feature of the competition is its function as the official qualifying pathway for Southeast Asian nations to the AFC U-20 Asian Cup. The top finishers in the tournament earn berths in the continental championship, giving the event significant strategic importance beyond regional prestige. The format typically involves a group stage followed by knockout semi-finals and a final. The 2026 edition was officially titled the ASEAN U-19 Boys' Bank Sumut Championship, highlighting local sponsorship integration.

Historically, Australia has been the most successful team, securing six titles across various years. Thailand follows with five titles, while recent winners include Indonesia, who claimed the championship in 2024, and Malaysia, who won in 2022. The tournament also holds records for high-scoring finals, such as Thailand's 6-0 victory over Vietnam in 2015 and Malaysia's dramatic 4-3 extra-time win over Indonesia in 2018.

The competition is distinct from other age-group tournaments within the region primarily by its frequency and its specific role. Unlike the AFF U-16 Championship, which is an annual event, the U-19 Championship is biennial. Furthermore, while the AFF U-23 Championship is linked to Olympic qualification, the U-19 edition serves exclusively as the direct qualifier for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup. This structure ensures that the tournament remains a critical stepping stone for young players aspiring to represent their countries on a larger stage.