Why did AFC set a Feb 15 deadline for Group G decisions?

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AFC Established February 15 Deadline for Group G Decisions Due to Varying National Processes

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has set a February 15 deadline for all teams within Group G to finalise their decisions regarding the continuation or postponement of their remaining World Cup 2022/Asia Cup 2023 qualifier matches. This timeframe is necessary because the decision-making processes within each member country are diverse and influenced by numerous factors. The AFC intends to intervene only after this date, thereby granting teams an internal discussion period until the deadline.
National Decision-Making Variances Necessitate a Fixed Date

The AFC secretary-general, Datuk Windsor Paul John, explained that the stipulated timeframe is a direct response to the differing internal procedures and influences that affect each country's ability to commit to the remaining fixtures. This approach allows national football associations, such as the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), time to consult with their respective stakeholders before providing a definitive stance to the confederation.
FIFA's Schedule and Qualifier Completion Drive the Timeline

The deadline is also informed by FIFA's overarching schedule for the World Cup and Asia Cup qualifiers. FIFA has designated June as the deadline for completing the second round of qualifiers, with the third round scheduled for September. Crucially, all qualifiers must be concluded by April 2022, necessitating timely decisions from all participating teams to allow for the organisation of subsequent rounds.
AFC Intervention Post-Deadline to Facilitate Planning

Following the February 15 deadline, the AFC will engage with teams that have not yet provided a decision on their participation. This intervention will involve verifying their continued willingness to play as scheduled and gathering essential information regarding match locations. Subsequently, the AFC will contact opposing teams to ascertain their capacity to proceed, thereby facilitating the logistical planning required for the remainder of the qualifying campaign.

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Why did AFC set a Feb 15 deadline for Group G decisions?

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