The 2023 AFC Asian Cup knockout stage kicked off on Sunday and produced interesting matches and unique drama.
On Monday, two promising Arab derbies will take the main stage.
Australia vs Indonesia (4-0)
The Round of 16 in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup kicked off with what could’ve been a statement victory for Australia but somehow ended with a feeling that it is the maximum the Socceroos can produce. The Aussies stayed behind for most of the game against the highly motivated but less effective Indonesia, but surprisingly enough, ended the clash with a resounding 4-0 win. Elkan Baggot, with an own goal in the 12th minute, followed by goals from Martin Boyle, Craig Goodwin and Harry Souttar, sealed the Indonesian faith. The Socceroos showcased their attacking prowess, with clinical finishing when needed, but failed to dominate the play. Indonesia created and tried to threaten a goal but struggled to find the target, and as a result, the 2015 champions progressed to the quarterfinals. This performance solidifies Australia's enigmatic presence in this tournament: the results are there, but are they one of the tournament favourites? A quarterfinal against South Korea or Saudi Arabia will determine.
Tajikistan vs United Arab Emirates (1-1, Tajikistan won on penalties)
In a thrilling encounter, Tajikistan and the United Arab Emirates battled to a 1-1 draw in regular time, setting the stage for a dramatic penalty shootout. Tajikistan took the lead in the first half via a goal by Persepolis centre-back Vekhdat Hanonov and was close to doubling and even tripling their lead. Still, the UAE fought back with determination in the final minutes, equalizing on stoppage time with a header by Khalifa Al Hammadi to force the match into extra time and then a penalty shootout. Tajikistan held their nerve, emerging victorious in the shootout to secure a spot in the quarterfinals, their first-ever Asian Cup knockouts and their first-ever participation. The match showcased the growing potential nature of Central Asian football, throwing back to Istiklol Dushanbe’s success in the AFC Champions League in 2021.
Two Special Arab derbies
Iraq vs Jordan, 13:30 Jerusalem time
The round of 16 stage promises another chapter of high-stakes drama as Iraq faces Jordan in a battle for a spot in the quarterfinals. Both teams have shown resilience and skill throughout the tournament, making this clash mouthwatering. The Lions of Mesopotamia have the tournament's most prolific scorer, Aymen Hussein, who has scored five goals already, putting a tremendous effort in the name of his country and people. “It is a special tournament, and we do it give out families and people back home a reason to smile”, he said after the lucrative 2-1 victory against Japan in the group stage.
Jordan, on the other, enjoys yet another positive Asian Cup with Musa Al Taamari (Two goals so far), Yazan Al Naimat (a goal and two assists) and Mahmoud Mardi (two goals) leading the Nashama to a knockout berth. The loss to Bahrain on the final day exposed the weaknesses of Hussein Ammouta’s tactics. Still, the victory over Malaysia and the draw with South Korea and Henung Min-son showed they have what it takes to fight for a spot in the quarterfinals at least 13 years since they did it last time - also in Qatar. Expect a fiercely contested match with tactical battles and goal-scoring opportunities as Iraq and Jordan vie for a place among the Asian football elite.
Qatar vs Palestine, 18:00 Jerusalem time
Defending champions and hosts Qatar will go head-to-head against Palestine in what is expected to be a fascinating round-of-16 matchup, and not only for football reasons. Qatar has been in formidable form in this tournament, showcasing a blend of solid defence and clinical finishing against weak opponents. Akram Afif (three goals and an assist) and Almoez Ali (one goal and an assist) look fresh after a disappointing World Cup. Palestine, however, has proven to be a resilient side that can challenge teams that are traditionally above their weight, and they will be looking to defy the odds and make a historic achievement in their first knockout stage participation. All eyes will be on Oday Dabbagh, the Charleroi forward who scored a brace against Hong Kong, while Rami Hamadeh will look to continue his excellent form between the posts. As the quest for Asian Cup glory intensifies, this match promises skilful play, strategic moves, and an electrifying atmosphere, especially in the political contest. With the Gaza war carrying on and Qatar’s role in the hostage release negotiations, be sure that this clash will include some political and national gestures from both sides.
The AFC Asian Cup 2023 continues to captivate football enthusiasts with its blend of skill, drama, and unexpected twists. The round of 16 is poised to deliver more memorable moments as teams vie for a place in the quarterfinals and edge closer to etching their names in Asian football history in what is already being titled the best Asian Cup edition ever.
Photo via the Palestinian Football Association
