Copa America 2019: Qatar (Preview)

Qatar stand on the edge of making remarkable history, as they look to back up their Asian Cup crown from February with a second separate continental trophy within a year at this month’s Copa America. In truth, it’s unlikely that this will come to fruition to put it kindly, with few even giving the Maroon a chance of threatening for a point let alone a second successive fairy-tale tournament run to the latter stages.

And while their triumphant course to glory in the UAE was a considerable notch below what would be required in Brazil, it shouldn’t be forgotten how far they’ve come already. This time last year, Qatar were generally seen as a mess, projecting early that a transition to a more home-grown, younger unit would take time to come to fruition, given the average age of the squad coming through (the Asian Cup group averaged just over 24) coupled with modest club experience, which was almost entirely accrued in the domestic league.

Positive friendly results against Iceland and Switzerland in November sparked early curiosity. There was a glimmer of a promise that something might be different about these young players, something that hadn’t been seen before on the continent could potentially live up to its lofty billing. That billing of course, generated by the multi-billion pound Aspire Academy, tasked with producing the next generation of Qatari sport talent, with more than one eye firmly fixed on a competitive showing at the 2022 World Cup. Through the youth ranks they’ve indeed blossomed; qualifying for two of the last three U20 World Cups and making it to the semi-finals at the last two Asian U23 Championships. Their Asian Cup triumph however was the loudest indication that this group were ready to compete on the world stage.

The fallout from such success though has been moderately muted. Post the lavish celebrations (and cake cutting) players returned to their QSL clubs, cruelly missing out on a transfer or two which would’ve naturally occurred if the January window hadn’t yetd closed weeks before. The domestic season was another duopoly fight that didn’t show us any more than we haven’t seen before, while the Qatari clubs in question coasted through their Champions League preliminary groups in second gear. The headlines haven’t kicked on from February, with the big names who stamped their authority in their national colours failing to take the initiative once they returned to their employers. The Qatari youth sides haven’t exactly ridden the coattails of their elders either, finishing winless in recent U20 World Cup and Toulon tournament appearances.

Conveniently (if you’re feeling optimistic) the Copa America falls at a crucial juncture to keep brand-Qatar in the footballing public’s eye. A month out from the World Cup qualifying draw, which Qatar will remain part of despite having their hosting spot already guaranteed, it would surely feel like a missed opportunity if one or two of this promising group weren’t able to engineer a move to Europe over the summer.

Injury has held back Asian Cup top scorer and player of the tournament Almoez Ali, while upon his comeback he’s returned to a peripheral role for his club side Al-Duhail who continue to rely on the glitzier foreign talent around him. His partner in crime from the Asian Cup, Akram Afif has continued in trailblazing fashion for Qatari champions Al-Sadd, but while he is clearly a step ahead of anyone domestically, there is little hint his parent club Villareal will be keen on recalling him anytime soon.

Whether these two, or any of a host of promising talents catch the eye in Brazil is debatable. A star studded friendly against the Seleção last week in Brasilia was a close match on the scoring board, but a heavy hit home that the gap in talent is significant ahead of their Copa opener against Paraguay on Sunday.

Qatar, dissimilar to fellow AFC invitees Japan will be at full strength, free from serious injury and in the mindset of making a dent in the contest, a side out to pull a surprise or two rather than merely relying on the tournament for development purposes. With the Confederations Cup taking a back seat for the next cycle, this looks to be the last competitive outing these players will have to truly fight for something and sell their country in a positive light.

That light of course remains flickering. Political divides across the region has seen the modestly sized peninsula annexed from support. Add to this the problematic issues regarding their hosting, through questionable labour standards and corruption allegations, it’s fair to say the Qatari picture isn’t painted too rosy outside their borders at present. Even on a footballing standpoint, the cloud that emerged during the Asian Cup over Almoez Ali & centre back Bassam Al-Rawi’s eligibility for Qatar remains a question unanswered.

In adversity, and through little expectation usually comes a Qatari side fighting. Spanish coach Felix Sanchez, a man who’s been in Qatar for over a decade now has been reinstated as the man to lead the country through to the World Cup, after numerous suggestions that he’d make way for a “bigger name” come tournament time. Far from being merely an excellent youth team coach, Sanchez fully demonstrated his arsenal in tactical play in the UAE, having the nous and patience to know when to pounce, how to counter effectively and to attribute the best players to key roles.

They have the qualities to prove the perfect underdogs, as they did at the Asian Cup on countless occasions. Soaking up possession early in the piece, as they did against South Korea, and to a smaller degree against Japan in the final, they showed their patience to pick holes in stronger teams on the break. Through the pace of Akram Afif, the vision of Hassan Al-Haydos and the bullish pressing of Assim Madibo (which Neymar learnt to his cost last week), the team has its fair share of big game players that can hurt even the most established teams on their day.

When it comes to expectation however, it’s difficult to gauge. A realist, Sanchez has expressed this adventure as a perfect testing ground to develop further as a group and as individuals. Whether his employers will be quite so forgiving if they were to make a show of themselves in the wider public spotlight is another thing. In the end, while the World Cup remains a clear distance off, the Copa America will be assessed as a success for Qatar more by the column inches and media exposure it generates, rather than the results or the development it accrues.

Key Men

Head Coach – Felix Sanchez (ESP)

A Spanish youth development coach, turned Qatari national hero, moulding a distinct group of talent over the last 10 years into continental champions. Riding a wave of enthusiasm his contract was extended to their showpiece 2022 assessment, while talk of a big-name outsider is shelved (for now). Borne out of a typical Spanish form, Sanchez proved he could switch up their usual possession hungry approach and play on the break at the Asian Cup.

Star Player – Almoez Ali

Player of the tournament and record goal scorer at the Asian Cup with 9 goals from 7 appearances, the rangy Sudanese born striker has become an essential focal point to the side’s game plan. Has developed considerably from being used merely as a static leading man, Ali’s movement out wide by necessity at club level has improved his all-round game, which contributes to an effective link up with Al-Haydos and Afif in the Qatari attack.

Shop Window – Akram Afif

Having tried and to a degree failed to break Europe earlier in his career, the last six months has well and truly promised that Akram Afif, the golden child of Qatari football should be given another shot in the big leagues. Quick, direct with a cultured finish to boot, the 22-year-old remains on the books at Spanish side Villareal but will be keen on making a step up even on a temporary basis from his spell with home town club Al-Sadd, where he won the domestic title last month.

Young Prospect – Tarek Salman

A flexible, multi-faceted midfielder turned centre back, who encapsulates the spirit of much of this new Qatari team. Not the most physical (but on occasion petulant), nor quickest of defenders, Salman does however have the right head to succeed in the modern game, having the awareness and skill set to defuse and launch attacks in a blink of an eye. Formed an impressive centre back partnership with Bassam Al-Rawi in the UAE, despite both players only being 21 and having only brief experience outside of Qatar.

Asian Cup Matchday Review (Final)

Qatar clinch their first ever Asian Cup in some style, cruising to a 3-1 victory over heavyweights Japan in what was a final that didn’t falter under heavy expectation. The names Almoez Ali, Akram Afif, Bassam Al-Rewi and Felix Sanchez are now written into Asian football folklore, but what about the rest of the world with this summer’s Copa America and the World Cup in 2022 still to come? For now, a quick look back on a terrific game for the neutrals, and the key talking points to take from it.

The Player

Given the realistic ambitions of Qatar heading into the tournament, one man had a greater amount of pressure on his shoulders than most to fire his side’s cause. Upon this, the nation’s first continental senior prize, Akram Afif can sit back and can comfortably believe that he exceeded his personal goals. No fewer than 10 assists (unofficially 11, but we’ll let the AFC off), with two coming in the final, Afif has been the chief creator behind a side that has blown away the rest of Asia over the last month. His match sealing penalty was the cherry on his cake, a campaign to be savoured.

This match in particular saw Afif’s all round game come to fore, past the mere (sic) statistics of scoring once and providing another two. His pace was continually a threat on the break, stretching the usually mobile Maya Yoshida and Takehiro Tomiyasu this way and that, as Qatar continually threatened the Japanese backline. For better finishing he could’ve even finished with greater assist figures, Abdulaziz Hatem’s scooped effort after a great run and find from Afif in the second period would’ve capped off a worthy hat-trick of assists.

The eternal question will be what next for Qatar’s golden boy? He of course has dipped his toe in European football before and been found wanting. After a positive start with Eupen in Belgium, a move too early to Villarreal really stunted progress. For Afif, alongside the likes of golden boot winner Almoez Ali, centre midfield dynamo Assim Madibo and others, the approach of blindly funnelling them through the Eupen based Aspire outpost seems to have hit a dead end. Given the magnitude of these performances however, could we be about to see some moves of greater significance come the summer?

The Team

There will be few arguments around, that the best team didn’t win the Asian Cup trophy. 19 goals scored by seven different scorers, only to concede once (in the final) along the way, Qatar were exceptional from start to finish. The initial praise needs to go to the coaching staff, and the patience of the federation’s hierarchy. This has been a project 10 years in the making, and with grander sights being set on the World Cup in 4 years’ time, this promises to only be the beginning. The framework was sound, but the players have developed through it at a rate of knots. To a man this Qatar side were at the top of their game.

For the final, I’d initially predicted that Qatar would set up in a similar manner to the way they did against Korea. Deep, cautious and brave, only to hit on the counter come the second period. Well, to a degree I was right, but that defensive start only lasted a few minutes. As soon as the likes of Assim Madibo and Boualem Khoukhi got a foot hold in the midfield, Qatar ramped up the gears and left Japan flatfooted. An exceptional bicycle kick from Almoez Ali, followed by a sublime curling effort from Abdulaziz Hatem steered them away from the Japanese charge.

When summing up Qatar’s success, I quickly gravitate to the view that they see themselves as a team against the world. That world of course, being the political tensions that surround the region to date. Some may have worried for their inexperience given the magnitude of their matches against Saudi Arabia and UAE, but the young men came through fighting. The eligibility concerns that swirled upon the final failed similarly to de-balance a focussed group that are out to prove their doubters wrong. A worthy performance, that deserves the highest of praise.

The Talking Point

For all the positives that can be taken out of today’s final, the last few days have been tiresome, something neither helped by the governing body or the individual federations involved. If only football was the talking point after such a varied and substantive month-long competition, but instead we’re questioning ill-advised referee appointments, TV rights debacles and questions over player eligibility. The AFC have a much tougher job than most, given the intense political arena that is Asia, but continually they lack initiative, forethought and clarity, leaving us more and more in the dark, time and time again.

Maya Yoshida, a man who has stepped up to the plate in his new responsibility as Japan captain on and off the field pointed to this very fact on the run up to the final. Few want to imagine football as a consumer object, but the fact is the Asian Cup is a weak product, something the governing body has done little to resolve. This week’s inaction to crowd disturbances in the semi-final between UAE and Qatar and the accusations of falsified eligibility documents has done far more to fan the flames of a perceived corrupt footballing landscape than it does to alleviate tensions.

I speak as an outsider looking in. There has been little media scrutiny out in the Western world on anything to do with the Asian Cup, it’s not been on TV for a start, whilst any mention of players playing in the tournament is often derided as a “mickey mouse tournament.” The two key “trending” moments of the tournament have been when Son Heung-min was “released” of his duty upon South Korea’s defeat to Qatar and the right royal mess surrounding the Qatari national team’s eligibility, which is still perceived as a side that has bought its way to the title. While the AFC will notably shrug and suggest they have little impact on this, it has a duty of care to protect its prize product. Lessons need to be learned if Asian football is set to improve in the coming four years.

Asian Cup Matchday Review (Semi-Finals)

We’re now left with our final two, as Japan and Qatar overcame favourites Iran and hosts UAE in Monday & Tuesday’s semi-finals. While we’ve had hiccups along the way, it can’t be argued that we haven’t been granted the best two tactical teams on current form ahead of Friday’s final. Moriyasu’s Japan have grown into this tournament and demonstrated the best half of football we’ve seen in Asia for years, while Sanchez’s Qatar brushed aside the hosts as an afterthought, after a heated “blockade derby” ended with one clear winner. Looking back on the round, here’s my take on the key talking points.

The Player

“Flat track bully turned big match hero.” Depending on your point of view I may have undersold Almoez Ali’s impact to date there. The languid frame of Qatar’s leading man often flatters to deceive, but on this tournament’s reading, the Sudanese born striker has proved you shouldn’t underestimate his proficiency in front of goal. As Qatar emphatically overcame UAE in Tuesday’s semi-final, Ali clinched a little bit of history of his own, scoring his 8th in 6 matches, matching that of Asian great Ali Daei, in become the joint highest goal scorer in a single Asian Cup campaign.

In previous matches, Ali has come alive in the most inopportune moments, in jumping on lapses in defending, off a brilliant assist or dropped ball to capitalise in devastating fashion. His strike to double Qatar’s lead over the hosts was noticeable in its variance from the usual trend; picking up the ball 30 yards out, he engineered a small amount of space, to curl past the outstretched Khalid Eisa and send the capacity crowd into rapturous boos and sandal throwing petulance. The way he used the defender to create the angle was ingenious, the finish was right up there with the best at this tournament.

Ali’s career has blossomed of late, not in terms of proficiency, as he’s always been known for a high strike rate from early youth, but in his technical development. Having been moved out wide domestically for Al-Duhail, his movement and link up play have come along in spades, and that has transitioned into the national team. His passion for the cause also has been noticeable, for an often-quiet looking man, he’s been the most emotional of performers in the key politically charged moments against Saudi Arabia and UAE. Ahead of the final, Ali will be out to make history on a personal as well as national platform.

The Team

In the biggest match of the tournament so far, the best side in Asia over the last four years collapsed to their first continental competitive defeat over that time in dramatic style. While much of the discussion after the match surrounded Iran (I will get onto that), and where they go to now, Japan deserve the lion share of the limelight after what was another well thought out game plan. After a wobbly group stage, which required a comeback against Turkmenistan and a ground out result against Oman, the evolution of this Samurai Blue side has been a credit to their coach Hajime Moriyasu. After coming into the Asian Cup in muted form, Japan stand with one hand on the trophy ahead of Friday’s final with Qatar.

The Turkmenistan opener that welcomed this new Japanese side into competitive football, minus the likes of Keisuke Honda, Shinji Kagawa and Shinji Okazaki to name a few for the first time, was a tad disappointing to say the least. Defensively they were caught off guard too easily on the transition, whilst in possession they lacked ideas. From there forward, Japan improved immensely, firstly in a defensive capacity; their narrow victory over Saudi Arabia in the knockouts was a prime example of how to restrict attacking output to a possession hungry opposition, but they also improved their own forward thrust, demonstrated fully on Iran.

It’s arguably been slow in the uptake, but off the back of an improved performance by Ritsu Doan against Vietnam, the first-choice front four were back clicking. The return from injury of Yuya Osako spearheaded this, combining beautifully with Minamino (who looks much more comfortable in a support role opposed to burdening the goal scoring responsibilities) for both his opener, and the resulting penalty. Genki Haraguchi, one of the few who to survive the transition from direct countering deployed under the previous Halilhodzic regime, has changed up his game and capped off his performance with the late third.

For all the youthful inventiveness that has come to the fore, it was in experienced deeper areas where Japan starred most against Iran however. Maya Yoshida has grown in his responsibility, given the likes of Makoto Hasebe and Keisuke Honda have left. He looked a taller man, leading from the back alongside his fledgling defensive partner in Tomiyasu, his regal status is beginning to blossom. Another muted but effective performance from Gaku Shibasaki again ticked the team along. When few were keeping their heads in the Iranian line-up, Shibasaki ran the show coolly.

This new breed of Japan under Moriyasu has taken time to get used to, but with Iran joining the likes of Saudi Arabia, South Korea and Australia on the plane home after underwhelming campaigns (most of whom remain in transition), Japan’s success to date is ever more considerable. A Friday final appearance awaits them, as Japan continue to flex their undoubted muscle on the continental stage.

The Talking Point

Monday’s exit for Iran from the Asian Cup, which many had them destined to win, left many with a mixture of feelings. For neutrals, for an overwhelming favourite to be contested in that way is uplifting, however given the manner of the capitulation and resulting fallout, the last four years of dominance has a feeling of anti-climax for most of us. In the direct wake, legendary head coach Carlos Queiroz leaves Iran, having overseen arguably the greatest national side in the country’s history, but he still leaves plenty of what ifs.

As suggested in my tournament preview, Iran’s Achilles heel was that of mentality, something Queiroz had developed over his tenure. At the World Cup last summer, Iran revelled in being the underdog, contesting with the likes of Portugal and Spain on a technical level was a tough ask, but on an emotion level they had it won hands down. When it comes to continental football however, Iran were rarely going to be afforded such little expectation. The second half in particular against Japan finally ebbed away from them, fuelled by a sense of injustice where emotion and spirit overcame them, to be clinically took apart by a ruthlessly put together Japan side.

It's difficult to separate Queiroz’s managerial style and Iran’s philosophy, as both seem to fuel each other. Where to next for both parties will be very interesting indeed, and whether either will differ intact. While Queiroz is rumoured to be heading to South America, with Colombia being the most interested of parties, Iran start afresh in their pursuit of replacing a living legend. An emotional resilient approach has worked wonders the last four years, but given the improvements made in Iranian football from a talent perspective, is a technical, forward thinking coach the way to go? With Juan Antonio Pizzi already being muted as a potential successor, Iranian fans could be set to replace chalk with cheese on the most extreme proportions.

Asian Cup Matchday Review (Quarter-Finals)

We’re through to the finer end of things as we set up for the Asian Cup semi-finals that will take place on Monday and Tuesday. While Iran shone with a stunning attacking performance over China, the round was defined by some solid and tactically aware defensive performances from Japan and tournament dark horses Qatar. With so much still to unbox (not to mention the introduction of VAR into international Asian football), let’s start with looking back at the key talking points from the quarter finals.

The Player

While Japan’s attacking intensity has noticeably eased off this tournament, victory over Vietnam saw an element of hope that a return to the positive ways of old is on the horizon. The lack of a classic number 10 has been sorely missed in this Samurai Blue side; the semi-retirement of Keisuke Honda, and lack of form of Shinji Kagawa was eased by the emergence of Shoya Nakajima late last year, but injury put pay to that plan on the eve of the tournament. Filling the void hasn’t been easy, but Ritsu Doan’s performances of late suggest all is not lost for Hajime Moriyasu.

The Groningen man has had an up and down tournament, largely excusable given his age (not 21 until the summer), inexperience (still less than 10 caps) and the deep tactical shape infringed on the squad by Moriyasu. However, with Japan afforded more possession against Vietnam, Doan took on more responsibility, drifting in from the right to initiate build-up with Minamino and Kitagawa (who have rarely looked up to this level), Doan forced notable openings early on, and represented the only source at times Japan had of forcing a breakthrough against a well organised Vietnamese defence, and when breached, a commanding Dang Van Lam in net.

The key moment came, as Doan showed his inventiveness and wiliness to take on his marker, drawing the first VAR penalty awarded at the tournament. Whether there was contact or not (see my opinions on Twitter), the impact was telling and Doan’s responsibility to take the resulting penalty kick (despite Haraguchi’s success last week) illustrates how much his reputation has grown within this team. With Iran ahead of them, in decent form both in attacking areas and in defence, Moriyasu’s tactical expertise will be tested to another level. One thing’s for sure, after this performance Doan’s involvement will be integral going forward.

The Team

The third quarter final between South Korea and Qatar was always likely to be the match to swing a tournament on; the favourites for some (myself included) against the outsiders, this was the true test of both sides mettle. Qatar’s triumph with a late winner, backed up with a fifth consecutive clean sheet has sent waves across Asian football. The side that was only supposed to come to the table in four years’ time at their own controversial hosting of the World Cup, is turning the tables on some of Asia’s elite from the outset.

There was plenty eulogised about Qatar on the build up to the Korea matchup, many suggested they’d test their opponents back line early, that the match would be a much more open showing than we’ve seen so far this tournament. Instead, we witnessed a cagey first half, where Korea dominated possession and Qatar comfortably sat deep, happy to sniff out chances when they came and not to concern themselves too much if their counters broke down quickly. A maturity we’d hardly expect from a fledgling outfit, but there was more to come.

In the second period they burst out, pouncing on weakness and setting the Koreans back on their heels. No one expected anything from Qatar, the pressure was on Korea, with the returning Son Heung-min looking a weary figure under the weight of a nation. In truth Korea looked the side happy with extra time, and with that Qatar pounced. A quick, direct shot from distance from the unlikely source of Abdulaziz Hatem had them caught cold, in which they had little answer to.

Some have already sought to compare this Qatar team to the UAE side of four years ago. And while this is a similar shakeup to the elite order in Asian football, UAE were carried along by individual performances that have rarely been bettered. This Qatar team are exactly the opposite, in that they are a team, headed by a tactically aware coach that has set his stall out to perform. This is just the beginning, 2022 seems an awfully long way away at this point, but an Asian Cup final appearance could well set this side up for a great future.

The Talking Point

Thursday’s quarter-final defeat to Iran brought to close China’s Asian Cup adventure, but also the career of a true managerial great in Marcello Lippi, who is set to retire with a glittering CV that includes a World Cup and two continental club titles. Lippi’s time in charge of China however has been a head-scratcher; on one hand – China made it to the quarter-finals of a continental showpiece, further than anyone had expected pre-tournament, on the other - we’re left questioning how much further has he taken this team and football as a whole in the country?

Lippi arrived to save face, after a miserable start to latter World Cup qualification. Expectations were modest, focus was clear – redevelop this squad ahead of the Asian Cup and bring back some pride in the national team ahead of another World Cup cycle. What came to pass was a meagre reconstruction job, patching up holes where possible but no long-term fixes to China’s quite obvious issues. Lippi predictably relied upon the old guard that brought him success while at Guangzhou Evergrande, selecting the oldest squad at the tournament, captained by 38-year-old Zheng Zhi. He’s hardly leaving his successor with any resources to progress forward with.

The CFA and CSL have emphatically pushed their agenda of late, to increase youth participation in domestic football and upped the amount of national youth camps but stopped short of pushing this on the national team. The few players under-25 that did gain minutes at the Asian Cup were borne out of necessity rather than being chosen on merit. Their success on an individual tournament basis is also misleading given they struggled in overcoming Kyrgyzstan before losing connivingly to Korea in the group stage, ahead of narrowly beating Thailand in the knockouts. Thursday’s humiliation in a defensive capacity against Iran was a heavy blow, that in all reality had been in the pipeline for weeks. China are left with a moderately successful campaign on paper, but with plenty to do in reality if they are to see any noticeable uplift going forward.

Asian Cup 2019: Japan (Preview)

Six months on from surprising the world by qualifying for the knockout stages of the World Cup, Japan are a side full of optimism as they look to muster the perfect response to their failed Asian Cup campaign in Australia four years ago. Under yet another coach, restoring the identity of Japanese football is at the heart of the new JFA led project, building towards another promising era of potential success.

It wholly depends on who you speak to you, to whether they think Japan’s campaign in Russia was tactically well executed, or on the whole had a lot to do with lady luck. One things for sure, when said events fell favourably for the Samurai Blue, coach Akira Nishino played his cards well. The eventual performance (not withstanding the first half nerves) that followed the early red card for Colombia, the brave but ultimately prudent rotation of his squad in the final group match to keep fresh for the knockouts and the purposeful pressing illustrated against Belgium, all owe a great debt to Nishino’s initiative.

Of course, his backroom staff need to take partial credit for that success, one in particular; the incoming Hajme Moriyasu, fresh in the knowledge he’d succeed Nishino upon culmination of the World Cup, had an early say in how the side set up. The early tinkering to a Moriyasu-inspired three at the back, wing back system against Ghana on the run up to the World Cup may have back fired spectacularly then, but almost certainly has granted further time for Moriyasu to adapt to his playing staff post-summer.

While the philosophy has carried on; that of bringing back the Japanese identity of old, high levels of possession, creativeness and slow build up, in direct opposition of the direct, workmanlike but effective requirements of former coach Vahid Halilhodzic, Moriyasu has been quick to change the personnel on the pitch.

Losing the likes of Keisuke Honda, Makoto Hasebe and Gotoku Sakai to retirement after the World Cup, Moriyasu has subsequently cut the summer contingent further, excluding the likes of Eiji Kawashima (who admittedly had a woeful World Cup), Shinji Kagawa, Takashi Inui, Takashi Usami, and Shinj Okazaki from his Asian Cup preparations. While there’ll be contrasting arguments on their usefulness to the current squad, such a swift disregard of such talent is a brave call on the eve of a continental tournament.

This does however allude to the vast resources Moriyasu has at his disposal. In have come the attacking trio of Ritsu Duan, Shoya Nakajima and Takumi Minamino, three players playing regular European football, all under 25 and all cemented into Moriyasu’s starting plans. Nakajima in particular who could’ve felt hard done to, to not have been selected for the World Cup, seems to have improved from it, with a point to prove that he can indeed spring forward from where the likes of Kagawa and Honda left off.

The gradual phasing out of their older talents and when this is best to be undertaken has been a thorny subject for years, yet Moriyasu has, for the time being at least been given a break in this regard. Under Vahid Halilhodzic, the Samurai Blue regularly lined up with Messrs Honda, Kagawa and Okazaki taking their places on the bench, yet the style of football being bred at the time, lead for quick calls for a return to the status quo. The fact Moriyasu, a J-League man through and through, has been quick to instill promising talent he knows well in an attacking, possession-based system has clearly gained sympathisers.

There will be questions no doubt, of Japan’s credentials at the Asian Cup. They can’t merely coast through a tournament without scrutiny, and despite a lack of noise at present, come January fans will expect their side to compete for silverware. Given the long-term goals of the national side; to qualify and compete at 2022, seek victory on home soil at the Olympics in 2020, even portray a positive vision of Japanese football at next summer’s Copa America, is it too soon to be making a true assessment of Moriyasu’s progress at the Asian Cup?

The side feels fresh, a distinct change from that under Halilhodzic, even Nishino, but reliance on key players in defensive areas will stabilise the core required if they have hopes of going deep into the tournament. The back four is likely to feature their three most experienced players, in Maya Yoshida (now made captain under Moriyasu), Hiroki Sakai and Yuto Nagatomo. All three have experience of big competitions, but also play regular European football with their clubs, a key prerequisite going into the Asian Cup.

The keeper situation however remains a doubt. With Kawashima, unanimously thrown onto the scrap heap after the World Cup, Kashiwa Reysol stopper Kosuke Nakamura was ear marked as the heir in waiting to make his tournament debut. Multiple injuries since the summer have subsequently thrown that certainty into doubt, with Gamba Osaka’s Masaaki Higashiguchi in pole position to take the number one jersey on the eve of the tournament. Now 32, Higashiguchi’s erratic style of old has tempered slightly, but his lack of international experience will remain a concern ahead of kick off.

Japan all-in-all head into the Asian Cup as a subdued capsule. Preparations have been modest - as usual they have only scheduled home friendly matches since the summer, in which little has overly brought out a change in style or personnel that could suggest what Moriyasu is looking at heading to the UAE. With a relatively simple looking passage through to the knockouts ahead of them, Japan shouldn’t make heavy work of their Round 1 opponents, yet an early predicted meeting with Australia in the quarter finals, could see them struggle to better their abject showing in 2015.

Key Men

Head Coach - Hajime Moriyasu

Former Japanese international turned coach, who worked under Akira Nishino on the run up to and at the World Cup over the summer. Famed for leading Sanfrecce Hiroshima to three titles in four seasons playing an attacking brand of possession football. Has already illustrated his fondness for youth and the J.League, relying on untested international players in the run up to the Asian Cup.

Star Player - Gaku Shibasaki

Unassuming but poised, deep creator, who had found it difficult to fit in the national team picture, until Akira Nishino took charge ahead of the World Cup, now looks the key cog in Moriyasu’s game plan. Amassed a significant career in Japan with Kashima Antlers, including winning the FIFA Club World Cup Bronze Ball in 2016, before moving to Spain, with Tenerife and now Getafe. A vital figure in transition between defence and attack.

Under Pressure - Masaaki Higashiguchi

Long been a strong performer domestically, Gamba Osaka goalkeeper Higashiguchi has been flung into the spotlight, as the Samurai Blue number one upon the eve of the tournament with only a handful of caps to his name. Was always likely to play catch up with Kosuke Nakamura, however injury has thrown him a lifeline. Quite eccentric and lively in style, the keeper has been susceptible to the odd brain fade.

Young Prospect - Ritsu Doan

Player of the tournament at the 2016 AFC U19 Championship, Doan played a key role at last year’s U20 World Cup, scoring three goals over four matches. The 20-year-old can play anywhere across the three in behind the striker yet has already established favour with Moriyasu on the right side. A threat from dead ball situations, Doan scored his first Japan goal in October against Uruguay.

Asian Cup 2019: Lebanon (Preview)

Lebanon head to their debut Asian Cup on foreign soil in red hot form, boasting one of the longest unbeaten streaks in world football over the last two years, seeing them rise to within the top 10 of Asia. While expectations are noticeably suppressed (for good reason) on the leadup to January, the Cedars remain a team that have found a new lease of life since the appointment of their unknown Montenegrin manager and will look to surprise one or two more in the UAE.

Lebanese football has regularly been seen as an untapped resource, that Asia has rarely seen blossom. Club football remains modest, continuing to fall way behind their neighbours, in terms of both resources and footballing prestige. The rise of the national team in the last four years could look to turn things around for the country though, heading into their first Asian Cup appearance for nearly 20 years with more than a sense of optimism.

Their story of qualification was that of slow growth. Starting in a World Cup preliminary group that featured South Korea, immediate progression was written off early, but the tussle with Kuwait for second became an interesting subplot of the entire group phase. Regrettably, a 1-0 defeat at home, followed by a goalless draw in Kuwait, left themselves adrift of their peers. While Kuwait’s resulting ban from international football, saw Lebanon eventually finish ahead, the fact they couldn’t see a reversal in their results prior left them cut adrift of making it through as a lucky loser.

The early qualification stages were used as a building block however, in hope of achieving their more realistic aim of qualifying for the Asian Cup. Their progress in Round 3 clearly demonstrated how far they’d come in such a short space of time; cruising to four wins from five, with their only dropped points coming in an eventful 2-2 draw in Pyongyang to North Korea; the campaign was an unequivocal success. Far from mere qualification, Lebanon have pretty much remained unbeaten for the last two years.

Their unbeaten run, that stretched between March 2016 through to October this year, saw them extend their streak to 13 matches, only matched by former World Cup champions Spain. Previously a national team that had for too long lacked an end product on the competitive stage, was now a side reborn under new leadership.

That leadership, headed by Miodrag Radulovic has engulfed the country and its wider diaspora, who look to head to the Emirates in their numbers to support their nation. A relatively underwhelming appointment back in 2015, taking over the role from legendary Italian footballer Guiseppe Giannini, Radulovic proved to be the perfect fit for Lebanon, recruiting several new faces from scouring Europe, whilst bringing a new attacking philosophy to the team that provided dividends in later qualification.

The side has regularly been limited by the fact the core of the squad ply their trade at home in Lebanon. The recruitment of talent from across Europe has both improved the quality but also the range of their skill base. German born, but based in the lower leagues of England, Omar Bugiel has epitomised the rise of Lebanon under Radulovic. A modest player domestically, but a player that brings a goal scoring outlet that the national team has long desired.

Taking any pressure off their leading light Hassan Maatouk was an essential task Radulovic had to deal with. Maatouk has been an ever present since the turn of the decade, when Lebanon hit their lowest mark in the world rankings, to continue to lead his side to this day, to their highest position, comfortably within the world’s top 100. While their attacking fulcrum has recently returned home, his wealth of experience and notch above ability that he demonstrated regularly whilst playing in the Emirates, remains the catalyst in which the side builds attacking play on.

In the last few years, the emergence of younger heirs has been slow to progress. But in the aforementioned Bugiel, and Greek based Hilal El-Helwe, who scored three over the course of qualification, Lebanon have enough tools to frighten any team on the break. With a nucleus of the well experienced Joan Oumari to marshal the defence, and the talent of new Danish born recruit Bassel Jradi in midfield, the squad look well positioned to challenge to better their previous best at an Asian Cup and navigate past the group stage.

Enabling such an attacking game at the highest level remains a tricky proposition however. The last few months have not only seen Lebanon lose their world leading unbeaten streak but lose twice; to Kuwait (fresh after their ban was lifted) and heavily to reigning champions Australia. Without a win in their last four, a retreat in tactics has been noticeable (fielding a back five against the Socceroos), alluding to a more cautious approach upon their kick off with a deadly Qatari attack to come in January.

Lebanon have remained an enigma of Asian football for years, and that will persist going into their Asian Cup campaign. Illustrating fine attacking football in qualification is one thing but showcasing the same sort of invention at the elite table may be another feat entirely. The emergence of Jradi, Bugiel and El-Helwe promises much, but without the freedom and willingness to trust their ability to contest, a cautious campaign is likely to win out. 

With a similarly tough ask facing them in game week two against Saudi Arabia, a last-minute shootout with North Korea could ultimately decide their progress. A flash back to last October, in their 5-0 home win in qualification against the same opponents, a repeat performance would be something memorable to witness at the Asian Cup.

Key Men

Head Coach - Miodrag Radulovic (MON)

The key man behind the rise of Lebanese football, since his appointment in 2015, becoming the first Montenegrin coach in history to qualify a national team for a major tournament. Well liked in the country, for bringing through talent to match the local feel of the squad, can pull on a varied coaching career that included a spell with Uzbek giants Pakhtakor.

Star Player - Hassan Maatouk

Legendary winger or lone front man who has captivated Asian football for years with his immense talent and impressive work rate. A regular goalscorer for Al-Fujairah in the UAE, until moving home with Nejmeh last summer. Is set to become the record appearance holder and goalscorer for the Cedars in the coming years.

Cult Hero - Joan Oumari

Outspoken Berlin born centre back, who only returned to the national team, after greater guarantees of minutes under Radulovic. Has played his entire career outside of Lebanon, much of it taking place in Europe, however moved to play alongside Fernando Torres at Sagan Tosu earlier this year.

Young Prospect - Hilal El-Helwe

Winger, who has the capacity to play down the middle, El-Helwe offers creative movement and a deft finish. The 24-year-old, has been integral to the successes made under the Radulovic, utilising his recent form to make the move out of the lower leagues in Germany to Apollon Smyrnis in the Greek Super League.

Asian Cup 2019: Qatar (Preview)

With 2022 burnt in the foresight of Qatari football, a first road marker to assess progress is set early with their trip to the Emirates in January. Having quickly shifted tact, from experienced and nationalised, to youthful and home grown, little was expected of them at this early juncture, given the previous side disappointed so much in the last couple of years. Under former youth coach Felix Sanchez however, Qatar have quickly alerted the world to their potential with an upsurge in play, beating Switzerland and drawing with Iceland in November, to swing interest back in the Qataris favour on the eve of the Asian Cup.

What difference some 18 months can make? Last June, Qatar limply exited World Cup qualification, after some lofty ambitions, of at least competing for a place in Russia were clumsily dashed. Watching on, as the likes of neighbours Saudi Arabia and war-torn Syria, packed a punch, Qatari fans were left questioning why they couldn’t achieve similar results? Instead, Qatar exited in bottom spot, behind labouring China and Uzbekistan sides, with few crumbs of comfort, only to be eased by the fact they’d at least make their debut next time around.

2022 has long been the target, but the last few years have been borne out of the hope that it wouldn’t be their first time on the grandest of world stages. A last chance saloon, which saw their nationalising practices shift into overdrive, including the late recruit of 36-year-old Brazilian Rodrigo Tabata, the ways of old were simply running out of gas. Earlier in qualification; Qatar peaked, starting 8 players against Iran who were born outside of the country. Why did they need to do this? Well, the domestic stock was clearly not up to it.

Well that was the party line anyway, run emphatically by outgoing coach Uruguayan Jorge Fossati. When questioned on his perspective of using nationalised players over Qatari born ones, Fossati wasn’t shy in throwing his adopted countrymen under the bus. Fast forward a year and a half, to a side that fielded 8 starting players born in Qatar, at an average age of 24, beating one of Europe’s top national teams, and I’m sure Fossati is regretting his unequivocal dismissal.

His successor, Felix Sanchez has benefitted from a quick overhaul that has long been in the pipeline. Fossati and his fellow countryman Jose Daniel Carreno before him were tasked to bleed the current stock dry, by any which way possible, recruiting whoever they saw fit to qualify for 2018. Sanchez on the other hand, was directed in the more politically appeasing route, of young homegrown stock that would better reflect the country come 2022.

Sanchez has extensive experience of this very set of players, coaching the same group through the Aspire Academy, the U19s, where Qatar were Asian champions in 2014, U20s, where Qatar travelled to New Zealand to play in the Youth World Cup, to U23s, where they recorded back-to-back continental semi-final appearances. He wasn’t the biggest of names, even within domestic Qatari football, but he knew the resources he had at his disposal, and he continually brings the best out of them.

The side that succeeded on their recent trip to Europe may have been raw but they were well established in the style Sanchez (and the broadly the Spanish run Aspire Academy) required. Possession from the back, quick interplays, and a flexible attack, all growing Qatari hallmarks, throughout their successful youth campaigns. A foundation, which is about to be tested on the competitive senior level for the first time.

Going from considered underdogs, to a key player in UAE, over such a short period, is going to be a difficult ask, and should be allowed some slack if they do indeed fall short in January. With a centre back duo, that are set to only turn 21 on the eve of the tournament, it’s difficult to see Qatar challenging the elite nations for a finals birth, given the European expertise their opposition bring to the table. Facing off in their final group match against Saudi Arabia looks to already be a key sounding board for both sides progress to date, ever more so given the simmering political landscape at the minute.

There is a case to be said, for momentum, which Qatar clearly has. Not only are they benefiting from a strong record for the national team, the nucleus of the squad (playing for either of Qatar’s leading clubs Al-Duhail and Al Sadd) have recent experience of continental Champions League quarter final play. Left back Abdelkarim Hassan has been recently named (however surprisingly) the AFC Player of the Year, while there are still a few experienced heads left in the setup, the likes of Hassan Al-Haydos would feature heavily for almost any side in Asia right now if he was of another nationality.

Their brightest star arguably however, is flying winger Akram Afif, a player that has it in his range to attract a European offer with his showings in the Emirates. The winning goal scorer against the Swiss, Afif’s ascendancy into the limelight has taken it’s time to ferment, bouncing around several outposts in Europe before heading back to Qatar with Al Sadd. His play has clearly come on however despite failing to nail down regular minutes, something he’ll now be able to draw upon for the Maroons.

With scrutiny starting to develop over a promising, but to an extent untested national side, with four years to go until their own World Cup, it would be naive to think that any false move in January wouldn't be pounced upon with glee by the salivating media. While a year ago, we’d have expected to only see green shoots however, the quick progress Sanchez has energised in the squad may offer hope that a sustained run to the latter stages isn’t out of the question.

Key Men

Head Coach - Felix Sanchez (ESP)

Relatively unknown coach, who has been immersed in the development of Qatari football for the last 10 years. Has an incredible bond with this precise “generation 2022” set of players, having guided the group to successes at U19 and U23 level. Instructs his players to play a possession based, flowing style, that is instilled through the Spanish run Aspire Academy.

Star Player - Hassan Al-Haydos

One of the few old heads, and even rarer a player over 25, born in Qatar. Has been the poster boy of the national team for years, having the ability to open up defences and beat his marker in tight spaces. Now skipper, he can operate either on the right side of the attack, or deeper in midfield.

Under Pressure - Akram Afif

Still only 22, Afif has experienced plenty in his fledgling career already. Having excelled in Belgium with Aspire owned Eupen, the large step up in quality to the big leagues with Villareal and Sporting Gijon was too much for the quick winger, who’s now back in Qatar with somewhat of a point to prove to his critics. Scored the winner against Switzerland in November.

Young Prospect - Assim Madibo

Short but muscular holding midfielder who has the ability to set off explosive attacks, is primed to be this tournament’s breakout star. Has improved his game significantly since moving to Al-Gharafa on loan, to play alongside Wesley Sneijder, developing a European style of play, that fits well with the new direction of the national team.

WC Qualifying Review (Round 3 MD5)

We have reached the half way point of the final round of World Cup Qualification in Asia, and consequently are about to start a long (northern hemisphere) winter break that’ll stretch right through until March. In that regard, there were plenty of manager’s sweating it out, that their employment wouldn’t stretch into the new year, with Mahdi Ali (UAE), Vahid Halilhodzic (Japan) and Uli Stielike (Korea Republic), all in the firing line if they slipped up. In the end all three found the result they were looking for, but that’s hardly a guarantee in two of their cases, given their public image at present.

Back with the football itself, here are my player, team and talking point of the round, ahead of a lengthy 4 month gap. What is for certain, each team will go into this break with at least a few questions of their side going forward.

The Player

This round of matches in the end were all about Thailand. From underneath a solemn cloud following the death of King Bhumibol last month, an emotional draw at home to Australia will universally go down well in the country. Amidst what was by definition a team performance, striker Teerasil Dangda stood out, not only for his two goals that threatened to steal all three points from the Asian champions no less, but for his all-round contribution.

Facing Australia, arguably the best all round team in Asia was their toughest assignment so far, however through the passion and tactical master plan of coach Kiatisuk Senamuang they could’ve easily won, rather than taking just their first point of Round 3. Despite only being 28, Teerasil was the old head amongst an up and coming young bunch of players, and defended from the front immediately. His first goal illustrated his predatory instincts to float offside before pouncing in the second phase, to nip past Maty Ryan and slot home for Thailand’s equaliser.

For his second, showing his cool edge, he slotted away a second half penalty to well up the packed Rajamangala National Stadium. A perfect result tainted later on by the Socceroos equaliser, but this more than a result this was a country coming together through football. The team itself is building up well also, spearheaded by the likes of Teerasil and Adisak Kraisorn, who was absent through injury for this one; they are going in the right direction. Going into next week’s Suzuki Cup, Thailand and Teerasil will look to retain their trophy in the late King’s memory.

The Team

In a round where Thailand hogged much of the positive spotlight, much could be lost around the progression of fellow Group A competitors UAE, who moved within 1 point of top spot with a comfortable win over Iraq on Tuesday. The Emirati national side have won 3 from their 5 matches in this round, but have been highly scorned for being too stuck in their ways, put squarely on the head of coach Mahdi Ali, who finishes the year with yet more uncertainty hanging over him.

For me, Ali has been one of the most consistent coaches in Asia over the last 5 years. Qualification for the 2012 Olympics, an Asian Cup bronze, and as it stands a solid campaign to qualify for Russia in 2018, however fans are looking for more. There were contradictory reports that Tuesday’s match would’ve been Ali’s last in charge, something that has been swiftly denied by the FA, but given where they stand at this current time, would a change really help their cause?

While the match barely saw UAE get out of 3rd gear, the hallmarks of their recent rise were all there to be seen. Ahmed Khalil scored his 15th goal of the campaign, the highest of anyone in qualification, and what a goal it was, thundering past Mohammed Hameed at his near post. There was a well-crafted assist for Ali Mabkhout later on, and a return to his domineering best for Mohanad Salem in defence. All it missed was an Omar Abdulrahman wonder show, but we can’t have that every week, can we?

The Talking Point

It was a strange international week for Qatar, a week where fans of the national team are left thinking whether they should be positive or frustrated. An almost historic 2-1 victory over 2018 World Cup hosts Russia on the previous Thursday was a bolt of light; they played on the attacking foot, controlling possession and offering bodies and plenty of movement in attack. When it came to their qualifier in Kunming against China however, the strategy had changed, which in the long run looks to have derailed any glimmer of hope left in this qualification round.

Going into the match, the press conference talk pumped up a positive approach from the Qataris. They needed the victory, as did their hosts, anything less and they’d continue to be way off the pace going into the second half of Round 3. Instead we saw a return to the defensive 5221 formation that was deployed against Korea Republic in Seoul last month, a worthy set up when going for a draw, but given the circumstances and the shakiness of the opposition, should they have gone for more?

Granted suspensions to Ahmed Yasser and Abdelkarim Hassan in particular meant for a forced personnel shake up, but we were left short changed by the non-appearance of Akram Afif off the bench for the duration against China. It was clear that this result was what was required by boss Jorge Fossati, who will assumingly now return to their former more balanced approach when facing Korea at home next month. While the optimistic bubble created by Fossati’s appointment hasn’t burst just yet, on the back of an uninspiring draw with the group’s bottom side, it’s now a tad deflated.

U20 World Cup Preview (New Zealand 2015)

As all manner of domestic leagues come to a close, excitement builds for the return of international football starting with the Under 20 World Cup in New Zealand. The Asian contenders that qualified via last year’s Under 19 AFC Championship may instantly look out of the ordinary, the lack of any of the big 5 senior national sides of Japan, Iran, Australia, Korea Republic and UAE maybe surprising, but all were put to the sword during the tournament in Myanmar. The hosts, who enter the Youth World Cup for the first time in their history alongside previous minnows Qatar and Korea DPR are making a real forward burst in terms of youth development as they eye a bright future for their seniors.

Qatar

Manager: Felix Sanchez (ESP)
Qualification: Champions (AFC U19 Championship 2014)
U20 WC Group: C – Colombia, Portugal, Senegal
Key Men: Ahmed Al-Sadi, Yousef Hassan, Ahmed Doozandeh

They might have snuck in somewhat under the radar, but the performances of the Qatari youth squad will no doubt be one of the main talking points come the final, however they play. Much is expected of all youth squads going into the tournament, but Qatar’s particular interest will be heightened given this age group will be hoped to form their home World Cup squad in 2022. The entire squad lays on the foundations formed by the impressive but at times controversial Aspire Academy that continues to grow in providence with every given youth tournament.

Qatar go into the tournament in fine fettle, with arguably the strongest man for man U20 squad on the continent. The quality of attacking play was their key attribute in clinching their first ever U19 AFC Championship title last year. Much of their most impressive play came on the counter, in particular through the pacey and clinical Ahmed Al-Sadi from the right, while KAS Eupen based compatriot Ahmed Doozandeh dictates their play from deep. Their depth in quality proved crucial to push them over the finishing line, captured finely by super substitute Akram Afif, who climbed off the bench 5 times to score 4 goals in the tournament, including the winner in their final victory over North Korea.

Korea DPR

Manager: An Ye-Gun (PRK)
Qualification: Runners-Up (AFC U19 Championship 2014)
U20 WC Group: E – Brazil, Hungary, Nigeria
Key Men: Jo Kwang-Myong, Kang Nam-Gwon, So Jong-Hyok

Alongside Qatar, Korea DPR are looking to build on their dominance in a range of Asian youth competitions; picking up a silver medal at the Asia Games, the AFC U16 Championship title alongside their final appearance at U19 level which ensured qualification to New Zealand. While their senior squad continues to flounder against the very best on the continent, the increase in quality at their (typically secretive) home academies continues to threaten their rivals. Their penalty shootout victory over Japan in Myanmar came as a big surprise to those outside of the country but over the course of play proved deserving. Korea DPR will once again go into a tournament with little being expected of them.

The Koreans play some of the most attractive passing football of all the Asian sides travelling to New Zealand. Their fluidity runs through to their personnel on the pitch which regularly switches depending on their adopted approach. In Myanmar, the technically gifted Jo Kwang-Myong impressed the most, drifting in from the left wing, firing 5 goals during the tournament. Alongside Korea’s other attacking options Jo breaks from deep linking up well with the physically imposing Kim Yu-Song who holds the ball up impressively. The one area of concern could be in defence where the Koreans at times looked fragile, Cha Jong-Hun between the sticks particularly looked shaky.

Myanmar

Manager: Gerd Zeise (GER)
Qualification: Semi-Finalists (AFC U19 Championship 2014)
U20 WC Group: A – New Zealand (Hosts), Ukraine, USA
Key Men: Nyein Chan Aung, Aung Thu, Nanda Kyaw

Underdogs in all ways, the coming months are going to be used to enhance experience rather than claim silverware for Myanmar. They qualified for their first ever U20 World Cup, after making it through to the semi-finals at their home U19 Championship, however away from home could prove a little more difficult to manage. While they pushed Qatar to extra-time in their semi-exit, the general feeling from the neutrals watching was that they’d be hampered without the partisan support they received throughout the tournament.

Passion of course was key to their success, which spurred on a team ethic that turned around  performances that were ebbing away from them. It might be a cliché to point to the physical disadvantage South East Asians have over their competiters, but it was clearly highlighted when the squads were announced this week. Myanmar have named 14 players who fall under 5’7’’, while Asian compatriots Uzbekistan named no one under the same height. What they lack in that department they make up in their technical ability, which is a clear improvement on previous tournament squads. Attacking midfielder Nyein Chan Aung in behind Aung Thu provide an attractive tandem that will threaten their more accomplished (on paper anyway) opposition.

Uzbekistan

Manager: Ravshan Khaydarov (UZB)
Qualification: Semi-Finalists (AFC U19 Championship 2014)
U20 WC Group: F – Fiji, Germany, Honduras
Key Men: Zabikhillo Urinboev, Dostonbek Tursunov, Javokhir Sokhibov

Uzbek football is going through a slump in form of late, after a mediocre Asian Cup exit in January was followed by an exhaustive sweep of all four of their competitors from the Asian Champions League group stage. One crumb of inspiration has come from their need to revitalise the national team, currently set up with many of the regulars coming towards the end of their careers. A solid performance in Myanmar last year saw their U19 side make it through to the semi-finals, and thanks to a relatively favourable group World Cup draw, offers them hope to make it through to the knockout phase in New Zealand.

An advantage that they possess over their competitors both in Asia and at the forthcoming World Cup, is that they already possess players achieving minutes at a high standard both domestically and on the continent. Midfielder Javokhir Sokhibov has made the breakthrough with Pakhtakor of late, while striker Dostonbek Khamdamov is now a regular with Bunyodkor, with both players playing substantial parts against Asia’s top club sides in the Asian Champions League. Alongside their experience, hot shot Zabikhillo Urinboev who topped the scoring charts in Myanmar after appearing at the last Youth World Cup will pose the greatest threat for the Uzbeks. His target man frame makes him an easy out ball, but he’s also illustrated his ability on the floor in and around the opposing penalty area.