Whilst defending champions Senegal secured top spot in Group C. at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, five-times champion, Cameroon had to come from behind with two late goals to reach the last 16 after beating The Gambia in a 5-goal thriller.

The Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana were on the brink of humiliating exits, whilst Egypt and Nigeria managed to squeeze through on a night of stunned shock and relieve after the latest round of matches at the Africa Cup of Nations 2023.

Palestinian and Syria advanced to the knockout stage of the AFC Asian Cup 2024 for the first time after both teams secured their place in the round of 16 as two of the best third-placed teams from the group stage, whilst Australia advanced after their draw with Uzbekistan.

Whilst AFC Asian Cup debutants Tajikistan stunningly qualified for the last 16 in their debut in the completion, in their match, hosts, Qatar, moved on relentlessly after beating a much-fancied China in the final round of the opening group stages.

After a record year in 2023, The Hundred will return to Birmingham in 2024, delivering a month of world-class cricket and blockbuster entertainment for all the family.

If Japan, South Korea or Australia are to win the Asian Cup in Qatar they will have to do it the hard way in the face of hostile crowds roaring on their rivals from the Middle East.