AFF Cup

The ASEAN Championship (formerly a.k.a. ASEAN Football Federation Championship; less formally known as the AFF Championship), currently a.k.a. ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup for sponsorship reasons, is the primary football tournament organized by the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) for men's football national teams in the Southeast Asia.

A biennial international competition, it is contested by the men's national teams of the AFF to determine the sub-continental champion of Southeast Asia. The competition has been held every two years since 1996, scheduled to be in the even-numbered year, except for 2007, and 2020 (which was postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). It was felt that a close co-operation at the football level would improve the quality of sport across the region and make it more competitive at the Asian and world level.

The ASEAN Championship title has been won by four national teams; Thailand have won seven titles, Singapore has four titles, Vietnam has two titles and Malaysia with one title. To date, Thailand and Singapore are the only teams in history to have won consecutive titles; Thailand in 2000 and 2002, 2014 and 2016 and also 2020 and 2022, and Singapore in 2004 and 2007. It is one of the most watched football tournaments in the region. The ASEAN Championship is also recognized as an 'A' international tournament by FIFA with FIFA ranking points being awarded since 1996.

Since 2018, the championship winners would compete in the following AFF–EAFF Champions Trophy, against the winner of the EAFF E-1 Football Championship, the champions of East Asia, to determine the champions of East and Southeast Asia. Although having joined the AFF on 27 August 2013, Australia has not played the ASEAN Championship as part of the initial agreement.

The AFF Cup, also known as the ASEAN Football Federation Cup, is a prestigious soccer tournament held biennially in Southeast Asia. It brings together national teams from the ASEAN region, including countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, among others.

The tournament showcases the immense talent and passion for soccer in the region, captivating millions of fans with its thrilling matches and intense rivalries. The AFF Cup has become a platform for teams to showcase their skills, strategies, and teamwork, as they compete for the coveted title of champions of Southeast Asia.

The tournament follows a format that includes a group stage, followed by knockout rounds leading up to the final. The matches are played in various stadiums across the participating countries, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with enthusiastic supporters, colorful banners, and chants echoing throughout the stadiums.

The AFF Cup not only serves as a platform for national teams to compete, but it also fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie among the participating nations. The tournament promotes cultural exchange, as fans from different countries come together to celebrate their love for the sport and cheer for their respective teams.

Throughout its history, the AFF Cup has witnessed memorable moments, stunning goals, and nail-biting finishes, making it one of the most anticipated soccer events in the region. The tournament has also produced legendary players who have gone on to achieve success at the international level.

The AFF Cup has not only elevated the standard of soccer in Southeast Asia but has also played a significant role in promoting the sport's growth and development in the region. It has inspired young talents to pursue their dreams of becoming professional soccer players and has contributed to the overall popularity and recognition of the sport in ASEAN countries.

In summary, the AFF Cup is a thrilling and highly competitive soccer tournament that showcases the best of Southeast Asian football. It brings together nations, fans, and players in a celebration of the beautiful game, leaving a lasting impact on the region's soccer landscape.