There are more Asian teams competing in this year's FIFA World Cup than ever before, but can any of them win? With the tournament expanding to 48 teams, Asia has nine nations plus New Zealand from the Oceania confederation competing for the prize across the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Many, like Saudi Arabia and Iran are from the Middle East, but East and South East Asia will be represented by World Cup regulars Japan, South Korea and Australia.

Despite decades of investment, growing fan bases and increasingly professional leagues, no men's team from Asia has ever reached a World Cup final.

So what's holding the region back from the top level of global football? Why within Asia do Japan and South Korea consistently outperform their neighbours? And what has gone wrong with China's football ambitions?

In this episode, host Mariko Oi speaks to BBC Chief Presenter Steve Lai and Business Correspondent Nick Marsh about Asia's football culture, the challenges facing emerging football nations and which teams have the best chance of making history.

We also take a listen to South Korean footballer Son Heung-min in an interview with More Than the Score. Our podcast More than the Score is at the World Cup with the football stories that go beyond the stats. Search for it – More than the Score - wherever you get your BBC podcasts.

Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt

Get in touch: asiaspecific@bbc.co.uk

Could an Asian team win the World Cup?

Asia Specific

Could an Asian team win the World Cup?