Asian Football Confederation Annual Awards 2026 Announced
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has revealed the nominees for its annual awards for 2026, set to take place in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 19. Among the nominees for the prestigious title of Best Player in Asia are Saudi players Feras Al-Brikan and Salem Al-Dossari, as well as Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand. For the Best Player award among women, Australian Holly McNamara faces competition from South Koreans Kim Kyung-young and Kim Hae-ri.
The award ceremony will be held at the Accra Theatre in the King Power complex, marking the second time Thailand has hosted this event, following the first in 2017. This year’s ceremony will feature a total of 19 categories to celebrate the continent’s top football talents and their achievements.
Salem Al-Dossari Aiming for a Historic Third Win
Salem Al-Dossari, seeking to make history, hopes to secure the Best Player in Asia award for the third time after winning it in 2022 and 2025. The experienced captain of Al-Hilal is competing for the title once again based on an impressive season in 2025-2026. He led his team to an unbeaten finish in the league and claimed the domestic King’s Cup for the tenth time in the club’s history, as well as pushing into the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League.
This marks Al-Dossari’s third nomination in four years, reinforcing his position among the elite players in Asian football. Furthermore, on the international stage, he has enhanced his legacy, reaching nine appearances in World Cup history, placing him among the most capped Saudi players in this prestigious tournament.
Feras Al-Brikan’s Stellar Season Positions Him Among the Best
In contrast, Feras Al-Brikan enters the nominations for the first time, following a remarkable season with Al-Ahli. Most notably, he scored the winning goal in the 2025-2026 AFC Champions League final, helping his team retain the title for the second consecutive year—a feat that places Al-Ahli among the few teams to achieve this milestone. Additionally, he played a crucial role in securing a third-place finish in the league, contributing two goals in the Asian qualifying playoff for the 2026 World Cup, ultimately assisting Saudi Arabia in their qualification for the tournament.
The 26-year-old forward’s performance has caught the attention of fans and officials alike, and his debut nomination at this level signifies a significant milestone in his career.
Alireza Beiranvand’s Strong Return to Contention
Veteran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand is also in the running for the Best Player award after a successful season despite Iran’s challenges in World Cup qualification. Beiranvand, who previously received a nomination in 2019, showcased remarkable skills during the 2026 World Cup, even as Iran faced elimination in the group stage on goal difference. As one of the most capped goalkeepers for Iran, he helped his club, Tractor SC, reach the Round of 16 in the AFC Champions League during the 2025-2026 season.
His return to the nominees reinforces his status as one of the leading goalkeeper figures in Asian football and further enhances his legacy in international competitions.
A Celebration of Asian Football Excellence
The 2026 AFC Awards are set to be a grand celebration of Asian football, showcasing the talent and dedication of players across the continent. The ceremony, beginning at 8 PM local time in Bangkok (4 PM Saudi Arabia time), will honor standout performances and achievements. With 19 categories, it aims to recognize not only players but also coaches, clubs, and other contributors to Asian football.
As the date approaches, football fans can look forward to a display of exceptional talent and a night that promises to highlight the future of the sport in Asia. The anticipation surrounding the event continues to grow, and all eyes will be on the nominees as they prepare for this important occasion in their careers.