AFC Asian Cup Round of 16: Japan Begins to Show True Strength, Iran Enters Competitive Mode

The AFC Asian Cup Round of 16 continues on the evening of January 31st, Beijing time, with Japan and Iran taking the spotlight. Japanese fans have been dissatisfied with their team’s performance in the group stage, where they only managed to defeat two Southeast Asian teams. Now entering the knockout phase, coach Hajime Moriyasu must ensure that the team performs at its best. On the other hand, Iran, having rested their star forward Sardar Azmoun during the group stages, are ready to unleash their full strength as they transition from group stage mode to knockout mode.

Bahrain vs. Japan - The Weakest Group Winner Faces the Strongest Group Runner-Up

Bahrain’s journey to the knockout stage was an unexpected one. They quietly secured their place in the knockout stage, emerging as group winners after a surprising turn of events where they were underestimated by Jordan and South Korea. Despite losing 3-1 to South Korea in their opening match, Bahrain managed a narrow 1-0 win over Malaysia in their second game. Fans were concerned that Bahrain might not make it as one of the best group winners due to their goal difference, especially with a challenging final group match against Jordan, who had drawn with South Korea.

To ensure their progression, Bahrain aimed to secure a win against Jordan in their final group match, as they were only third in the group standings. A goal in the 34th minute of the first half gave Bahrain the lead, and they held onto it despite realizing that their potential next opponent would be the tournament favorites, Japan. Jordan had no significant incentive to equalize, and the match concluded with Bahrain as the only group winner to have lost a match, setting up a Round of 16 clash with Japan.

From Japan’s perspective, finishing second in their group and facing the weakest group winner was a favorable outcome, although this was not something they could have predicted. Analyzing their group stage performance, it is clear that Japan underperformed, especially in defense, conceding five goals, the second-highest among the teams that advanced. A significant portion of the criticism was directed at goalkeeper Ayane Suzuki, who, unlike his predecessors Shuichi Gonda and Eiji Kawashima, lacked stability and the ability to make crucial saves. Despite this, Moriyasu relied heavily on Suzuki, playing him in all three group matches, possibly treating the group stage as an opportunity for experimentation.

As the team enters the knockout stage, Japan is expected to step up their game. Ayase Ueda, who demonstrated his pivotal role in the first three matches, is likely to start in the knockout match. Bahrain and Japan have not faced each other in an official match for many years, and with the current disparity in team strengths, Japan is expected to win 3-1 and advance to the quarterfinals.

Iran vs. Syria - Azmoun to Start Delivering in the Knockout Stages?

Iran’s group stage opponents were relatively weak, and their three victories came as no surprise. However, a narrow 1-0 win over Hong Kong raised some eyebrows among fans. It was evident that Iran was holding back during the group stage. Their star striker Sardar Azmoun played as a substitute in the first match and sat out the second match against Hong Kong entirely. It wasn’t until the final group match against the UAE, the strongest team in their group, that Azmoun started.

The expanded format of the Asian Cup has made the gap between strong and weak teams more apparent. Had the tournament featured only 16 teams, Iran would not have dared to rotate their key players as they did. Syria’s performance in the group stage was steady but unremarkable. They drew 0-0 with Uzbekistan in their opening match, compensating for their technical deficiencies with hard work and relentless running. In their second match against Australia, the strongest team in their group, Syria maintained a defensive stance, allowing Australia only one shot on target, which unfortunately resulted in a goal, leading to a narrow defeat. This set the foundation for Syria to be one of the best third-place teams. In their final match against India, the weakest team in their group, Syria dominated and secured a 1-0 victory, ensuring their progression to the knockout stage. With just one goal in the group stage, Syria was the lowest-scoring team to advance.

Iran and Syria have faced each other twice in the World Cup qualifiers, with Iran winning both matches without conceding a goal. Although this Syrian team is defensively resilient, a full-strength Iranian side should be able to find and exploit weaknesses in Syria’s defense, ultimately securing a 2-0 victory to move into the quarterfinals.

Japan’s Group Stage Struggles

Japan’s group stage performance was far from convincing. Despite winning against Vietnam and Thailand, their defensive frailties were exposed, conceding five goals in three matches. The criticism has been directed at goalkeeper Ayane Suzuki, whose performances have been inconsistent. In comparison to previous Japanese goalkeepers like Shuichi Gonda and Eiji Kawashima, Suzuki has struggled to instill confidence with his shot-stopping abilities and overall stability.

Moriyasu’s decision to stick with Suzuki throughout the group stage suggests he was using these matches as a testing ground. However, with the knockout stages now upon them, Japan will need to show their true strength. Forward Ayase Ueda has been a standout performer, providing a much-needed focal point for Japan’s attacks. His presence will be crucial in the match against Bahrain.

Bahrain’s Unexpected Journey

Bahrain’s path to the knockout stage was unexpected, with their performance raising eyebrows. After losing to South Korea, their narrow victory over Malaysia and a draw against Jordan allowed them to top their group. However, their position as the weakest group winner was evident, setting up a daunting clash against Japan.

The last time Bahrain and Japan met in an official match was years ago, and the current gap in team strength is significant. Japan is expected to capitalize on this mismatch and advance to the quarterfinals with a 3-1 victory.

Iran’s Calculated Approach

Iran’s approach to the group stage was strategic, resting key players like Sardar Azmoun to keep them fresh for the knockout rounds. This cautious strategy paid off, as they managed to progress with three wins, albeit with some criticism for their narrow victory over Hong Kong.

With Azmoun now fully rested and the team transitioning to knockout mode, Iran is poised to demonstrate their true potential. Their previous encounters with Syria in the World Cup qualifiers, where they won without conceding, provide a psychological edge. Syria’s defensive resilience will be tested, but Iran’s attacking prowess is expected to break through, leading to a 2-0 win.

Syria’s Defensive Stance

Syria’s group stage campaign was characterized by their defensive approach. They managed to secure a draw against Uzbekistan and narrowly lost to Australia, conceding only one goal. Their victory over India was enough to see them through to the knockout stages.

While their defensive solidity has been commendable, their lack of offensive firepower is a concern. Facing a full-strength Iran, Syria will need to find a balance between defense and attack. However, given Iran’s superiority, it is likely that Syria’s journey will end in the Round of 16.

Conclusion

The Round of 16 in the AFC Asian Cup promises exciting matchups with Japan and Iran looking to prove their true strength. Japan, despite their group stage struggles, are expected to overcome Bahrain and advance to the quarterfinals. Iran, with a rested and ready Sardar Azmoun, are likely to break down Syria’s defensive barriers and secure their place in the next round. As the tournament progresses, these matches will be crucial in shaping the path to the title.