The opening round of the AFC FIFA World Cup 26 qualifiers gets under way on 12 October, as the 20 lowest-ranked nations from the confederation take part in a set of two-legged, winner-takes-all affairs to qualify for the opening group stage.

None of the 20 nations entering the first round, which includes the likes of Pakistan, Indonesia and Laos, have qualified for the tournament as an independent nation. However, with the World Cup extending from 32 teams to 48, there are now eight guaranteed AFC spots at the finals – with a potential ninth coming via the FIFA Play-off Tournament – meaning World Cup 26 will provide these nations with a better chance than ever before.

Ahead of qualifying, FIFA has taken a look at five players to keep an eye on during the opening round.