Unlike in previous years, no team was set for the final round at this event. All 20 registered teams must compete in the qualification. Of the eligible countries, East Timor, Guam and Brunei, which was suspended by the world association FIFA, did not take part. Based on the results of the AFC Challenge Cup 2010 , the teams were divided into two groups, the twelve higher-placed teams were placed directly for the group stage of the qualification, the eight weaker teams played in four play-off games for a further four places in the group stage . The 16 national teams qualified for the group stage were drawn in four groups of four teams. The group games are played in a simple league system in one city, the two best in each group qualify for the final round.