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QUARTERLY THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ASIAN CONFEDERATION ISSUE 25

PLUS MILOS DEGENEK Defender wants Socceroos to dominate Asian AFC football ASIAN CUP UAE 2019 An in-depth look at the 24 teams participating at the continental tournament ALIREZA ISSUE BEIRANVAND IR goalkeeper targets AFC Asian Cup title

25January 2019 THITIPAN PUANGCHAN takes After the Philippines qualified for The War Elephants midfielder inspiration from the golden their maiden AFC Asian Cup, the is aiming to go deep into the generation of 2007 ahead striker looks forward to competing tournament in the United Arab of his first AFC Asian Cup. with the continent’s elite. . QUARTERLY

CONTENTS Issue No. 25 January - March 2019

Official quarterly publication of the Asian Football Confederation

Published on behalf of the Asian Football Confederation by Lagardère Sports

Asian Football Confederation AFC House, Jalan 1/155B, Bukit Jalil 5700

Tel: +603 8994 3388 Fax: +603 8994 2689

www.the-afc.com

www.facebook.com/theafcdotcom 14 @theafcdotcom President & FIFA Vice President: AFC ASIAN CUP Shaikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa

Vice Presidents: UAE 2019 SPECIAL Praful Patel Winston Lee Boon Aun Ali Kafashian Naeini Saoud A. Aziz M A Al Mohannadi 42 – 54 – Phil Younghusband A fine 2018 saw the Iranian goalkeeper at The Philippines’ record goalscorer believes the FIFA Council Members: the FIFA World Cup and reach Azkals have what it takes to reach the HRH Prince Abdullah Ibni Sultan the AFC Champions League final. AFC Asian Cup knockout rounds. Ahmad Shah He now wants to end his country’s Kohzo Tashima 42-year wait for continental success. 56 – Thitipan Puangchan Zhang Jian It’s 12 years since last reached the Chung Mong-gyu 48 – Bashar Resan continental tournament, but Thitipan Puangchan Mariano V. Araneta Jr. The Persepolis midfielder has risen to is confident the Southeast Asians can make their Mahfuza Akhter Kiron the fore over the past 12 months and mark in the . looks set to be a key figure in Iraq’s AFC Executive Committee quest for AFC Asian Cup glory. 58 – Anton Zemlianukhin Members: Makhdoom Syed Faisal Saleh Hayat, After scoring the goals to help Kyrgyz Moya Dodd, Susan Shalabi Molano, 52 – Milos Degenek Republic advance to their first AFC Asian Cup, Han Un-gyong, HE Mohamed Khalfan -based Socceroo reveals that the the forward can’t wait for the MS Al Romaithi, Ahmed Eid S. Al defending AFC Asian Cup champions want to Central Asians’ campaign to begin. Harbi, Mohamed Shaweed, Sardor entertain en route to retaining their title. Rakhmatullaev, Hachem Sayed Ali Haidar, Viphet Sihachakr, Zohra Mehri

AFC General Secretary: Dato’ Windsor John

Managing Editor: Daniel Pordes

Editor: Peter Alsop Regular Sections Designer: David Chung 10 – In The News 64 – AFC U-19 Championship Photos: 60 – AFC Champions League 66 – Inside AFC Lagardère Sports, Agence SHOT, Adnan Hajj Ali, Getty Images, Power 62 – AFC Cup 70 – Great Grounds of Sport Images Any views expressed in AFC Quarterly do not necessarily reflect those of the Asian Football Confederation. The reproduction of photos and articles – even partially – is prohibited unless permission has been sought from the editors and a reference is made to the source. AFC PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Shaikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa AFC President

Dear friends,

Welcome to the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019. After four years the wait is finally over, and the biggest and best-ever AFC Asian Cup is underway. With a record 24 teams, who progressed through the most innovative and inclusive Qualifying Programme that has ever been staged, the AFC Asian Cup is now firmly established as one of the world’s top national team competitions. As the flagship tournament for Asia’s nations, the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 has lived up to the AFC Vision and Mission objective of developing top-level competitions that allow our teams to compete on the world stage. For the first time the AFC will introduce the (VAR) system from the Quarter-final stage incorporating the world’s leading suppliers in this field. There is a glittering new trophy for the first time in the 56-year history of the competition. Designed by world-renowned silversmiths, the trophy now awaits the winners on February 1. They will also receive a record winners’ cheque of US$5m from the richest-ever prize fund of almost US$15m. The AFC has supported Asian equipment manufacturers by signing with leading football developer Molten, who have created a specially designed match ball for the 51 games which begin with the UAE taking on on January 5 at Zayed Sports City. In control of the matches are the 57 top officials from Asia, which continues to set benchmarks in refereeing – and they will be supported by a trio from Mexico led by referee Cesar Arturo Ramos as part of the AFC-CONCACAF Memorandum of Understanding exchange programme. And all the action is taking place at eight leading stadiums and the AFC thanks everyone responsible including the UAE Government, the Local Organising Committee and our volunteers, who have generously given their time. So, there is much to be excited about but none of this would have been possible without the magnificent support of our Member Associations whose support and unity allowed the AFC to introduce all these exciting additions to an already prestigious tournament. I am also grateful to our commercial partners, broadcasters and the thousands of fans who will watch in the stadiums of the UAE and the tens of millions who will watch on television or engage via social media. Your support is greatly appreciated. We wish all the 24 teams the very best of luck and we look forward to crowning the champions in on February 1.

Shaikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa AFC President

AFC QUARTERLY 5 Gallery

Full House Final

A record-breaking crowd of 100,000 football fans packed the stands at in to watch Persepolis face in the AFC Champions League final on November 10.

AFC QUARTERLY 7 Gallery

Best In Class

Asian Football Confederation prize winners lined up for the cameras after winning their respective accolades at the prestigious AFC Annual Awards gala in , , at the end of November.

AFC QUARTERLY 9 IN THE NEWS

Abdulkarim Hassan And Double Delight For Win Top Awards Coaches At Awards

QATAR DEFENDER ABDULKARIM HASSAN IS NAMED THE AFC PLAYER OF apan were and all coaches who have given recognised for so much to the game. AFC Diamond of Asia: Zhang Jilong THE YEAR AND PR MIDFIELDER WANG SHUANG WINS their coaching “Of course, we aim to win the THE AFC WOMEN’S PLAYER OF THE YEAR AT AWARDS GALA IN MUSCAT. excellence in 2018 World Cup next year. And I am AFC President’s Special Recognition Award: Futoshi Ikeda; at November’s AFC confident that with unity, we can Annual Awards make our country proud.” Wild Boars FC bdulkarim Hassan rounded dreams of winning such an award and this is AFC,” said Wang. when the Men’s and One who may also be a part AFC Player of the Year: Ali Asghar Hassanzadeh off an excellent 12 months a great testament to football. “Of course, this has been a year of Women’s 2018 AFC of the 2019 FIFA Women’s by being named the 2018 “It is a great honour to be the second great results. To secure a move to PSG, to Coach of the Year accolades were World Cup is young striker AFC Referees Special Award: ; Reza AFC Player of the Year in Qatari to win this award. Of course, I have to score in the UEFA Champions League and awarded to and Asako Saori Takarada, who was Muscat, Oman, at the end thank my teammates and I thank everyone now to win this great award. But also, this TakakuraJ respectively. named AFC Youth Player of Sokhandan; Mohammadreza Mansouri of November after seeing off who supported me in my career. year we played in the and Kashima Antlers’ coach Oiwa the Year (Women), while Saudi competition from Kashima “I would like to dedicate this award to the personally I do feel some regret that we guided his side to their maiden Arabia’s Turki Al Ammar won AFC Inspiring Member Association Of The Year: Japan Antlers pair Yuma Suzuki and Qatar FA President, and the Qatari people. I were not able to do better.” AFC Champions League title the AFC Youth Player of the Football Association Kento Misao. am still just 25 years old, I have a long way The 23-year-old was part of the China on November 10 to pick up the Year (Men). The Al Sadd left-back played a vital role to go, and I hope to build on this success. PR team who finished third in the 2018 men’s top coaching honour, Japan also earned the AFC Developing Member Association Of The Year: DPR inA his club’s advance to the 2018 AFC The three nominees did a great job this AFC Women’s Asian Cup in and while AFC Women’s Asian Cup Inspiring AFC Member Champions League semi-finals and runners- year.” played a pivotal role for the Steel Roses, Jordan 2018-winning coach Asako Association of the Year, Makoto Football Association up finish in the 2017-18 In the women’s game, China PR’s scoring six goals at the 2018 Asian Games Takakura confirmed her legendary Hasebe was named AFC Asian AFC Aspiring Member Association Of The Year: Mongolian season. Wang Shuang, who plays for Paris Saint- in , where they finished second. status in women’s football with her International Player of the Hassan, 25, is also a key player in the Germain in the Division 1 Féminine, claimed “Football is a sport that stands for sixth AFC Women’s Coach of the Year, and there was a special Football Federation Qatar national side and winning the award will the award for the first time, following equality,” she added. “I hope that this Year award. recognition for Futoshi Ikeda, boost his morale ahead of the AFC Asian Cup an impressive year at both club and award will remind girls in Asia that if they “I feel very proud that I have this who coached Japan’s U-20 AFC President’s Recognition Award for Grassroots Football: UAE 2019. international level. have a dream, they should continue to honour almost every year,” said Women side to FIFA U-20 “I am very glad and proud to achieve this “It is a total honour for me to receive this chase that dream and to turn that it into Takakura. Women’s World Cup glory last China//Palestine award,” said Hassan. “Every player in Asia precious award, I would like to thank the reality.” “But this is really for my players August.

AFC QUARTERLY 11 IN THE NEWS

Heavyweight Clashes The A New Champion Highlight Of 2019 Draw Will Be Crowned

here will be a repeat of the 2018 continental champions Al Hilal of , Evergrande are in Group F along fter completing their hat-trick ’s Al Ittihad, who won the seventh FC of and Cambodian club semi-final as early as the group Tehran heavyweights Esteghlal and Qatari with ’s Melbourne Victory and Korean of AFC Cup titles last year, edition of the AFC Cup in 2010, are in Group Nagaworld. stage in the 2019 edition of the powerhouse Al Duhail. FA Cup winners Daegu FC and another side to Air Force Club will instead be B alongside Bahrain’s Al Najma, SC The Philippines’ Ceres Negros or Davao AFC Champions League after In Group A, Al Zawraa Club will make history come through the play-offs. taking part in this year’s AFC or Kazma SC (both Kuwait) and of Aguilas will take to the stage in Group G, last year’s runners-up Persepolis when the Iraqi side become the first from their Winners of the tournament in 2006 and 2016, Champions League meaning Jordan. where they will meet Vietnam’s Becamex of the Islamic Republic of Iran nation in 10 years to play in the AFC Champions Korea Republic’s are come November 2019 there Completing the West Zone is Group A Binh Duong, Myanmar’s Shan United and a and Qatar’s Al Sadd were paired League. They will face Emirati side Al Wasl and in Group G alongside 2017 champions Urawa will be a new champion of which contains Al Jaish of Syria, champions in team from Indonesia. alongside each other in Group two play-off winners. Red Diamonds of Japan, China FA Cup winners the AFC Cup for the first time 2004, ’s Al Nejmeh, Al Wehdat or Al In Group H, Home United of Singapore D of the 2019 AFC Champions League after the Two-time winners Al Ittihad of Saudi Arabia also Beijing Guoan and Thailand’s Buriram United. since 2016. Faisaly (Jordan) and a play-off winner. are matched with Kaya FC of the draw took place at AFC House in Kuala Lumpur in return to the AFC Champions League and are in Finally, Malaysia’s Darul Ta’zim make Runners-up last year, Altyn Asyr return In the South Zone, Minerva Punjab of Philippines, Laos’ Lao Toyota FC and November.T Group B alongside Al Wahda of the UAE, Uzbek their long-awaited AFC Champions League andA are drawn in Group D – the Central Zone are placed in Group E alongside Indonesian side PSM Makassar. Persepolis came out on top of the final four champions Lokomotiv and a play-off winner. bow in Group E, and will face Korea Republic’s – where they will face Dordoi FC of Kyrgyz ’s , a In the East Zone, DPR Korea’s 4.25 SC meeting between the two sides, but Al Sadd will not In the East, Group H sees three national Gyeongnam FC and two play-off winners. Republic, either FC Istiklol or FC Pegar-Tadaz club from and a side that progresses and Chinese ’s Hang Yuen FC have need to wait long for their re-match. The pair will be champions drawn together. J.League winners All remaining places for the 2019 AFC of and a play-off winner. through the play-offs. been drawn in Group I alongside Kitchee joined by Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli and a play-off winner. , A-League champions Sydney Champions League will be decided following In the West Zone, former winners Qadsia Moving further east, Group F is the first of SC or Pegasus – both of Hong Another exciting line-up is in Group C, where FC and China’s current domestic kings the preliminary and play-off rounds in February, SC of Kuwait return to the tournament in Group three ASEAN Zone groups and pairs together Kong – and a play-off winner. inaugural AFC Champions League winners Al SIPG. The trio will be joined by a play-off winner. ahead of the group stage, which kicks off on C along with Lebanon’s Al Ahed, Bahrain’s Tampines Rovers of Singapore, Yangon The group stage of the 2019 AFC Cup Ain of the United Arab Emirates will face two-time Meanwhile, two-time continental champions March 4. Malkiya Club and Al Suwaiq of Oman. United or Zwekapin United of Myanmar, will kick off on February 25.

West Zone Central Zone South Zone ASEAN Zone East Zone Group A Group B Group C Group D Group E Group F Group G Group H Group A Group B Group C Group D Group E Group F Group G Group H Group I Al Wasl Al Ittihad Al Duhail SC Persepolis Gyeongnam FC Guangzhou Evergrande Sydney FC Al Jaish Al Najma Al Ahed FC Istiklol/FC Pegar-Tadaz Minerva Punjab Hanoi FC Ceres Negros/Davao Aguilas Home United Kitchee SC/Hong Kong Pegasus Al Zawraa Club Al Wahda Al Hilal Al Sadd Johor Darul Ta’zim Daegu FC Beijing Guoan Kawasaki Frontale Al Nejmeh Al Ittihad Malkiya Club Altyn Asyr Abahani Limited Dhaka Tampines Rovers Becamex Binh Duong Kaya FC 4.25 SC Play-off Winner Lokomotiv Al Ahli Saudi Play-off Winner Melbourne Victory Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors Shanghai SIPG Al Wehdat/Al Faisaly Kuwait SC/Kazma SC Al Suwaiq Dordoi FC Nepal 1st Club Yangon Utd/Zwekapin Utd Indonesia 1st/3rd Club Lao Toyota FC Hang Yuen FC Play-off Winner Play-off Winner Esteghlal FC Play-off Winner Play-off Winner Play-off Winner Buriram United Play-off Winner Play-off Winner Al Jazeera Qadsia SC Play-off Winner Play-off Winner Nagaworld Shan United PSM Makassar Play-off Winner

AFC QUARTERLY 13 PREVIEW: AFC ASIAN CUP UAE 2019

THE GRANDEST STAGE

THE 17TH EDITION OF THE AFC ASIAN CUP WILL BE THE TOURNAMENT’S BIGGEST YET WITH 24 TEAMS APPEARING IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES BETWEEN JANUARY 5 AND FEBRUARY 1.

ames Troisi’s extra-time Having impressively finished third at the strike four years ago in previous tournament, the UAE will look to Australia handed the turn home advantage into a maiden AFC Socceroos their first AFC Asian Cup title, with the Whites beginning Asian Cup title, but this their campaign in Group A against 2004 January, the slate is wiped fourth-place side Bahrain, India and clean as Asia’s top 24 Thailand. nations face off for the Group B sees holders Australia take on right to call themselves the winner of the Syria, Palestine and Jordan, and two-time continent’s biggest prize. winners Korea Republic headline Group JAustralia’s 2015 triumph saw the Green C ahead of China PR, and two debutants: and Gold join the roll of honour of AFC Kyrgyz Republic and the Philippines. Asian Cup champions that now extends to In Group D, three-time champions IR eight nations. Of those, six will be among Iran have been drawn with Iraq, Vietnam the contenders for the 2019 title. and , while Group E comprises Japan remain ahead of both Islamic another treble winner, Saudi Arabia, Republic of Iran and Saudi Arabia on the alongside Qatar, Lebanon and DPR Korea. all-time winners’ list, and the continent’s And finally, four-time winners Japan are three most successful nations will be drawn in Group F with , Oman joined in the United Arab Emirates by the and . hosts, defending champions Australia, Hosts UAE will have the honour of former winners Korea Republic and Iraq opening the tournament against Bahrain as well as Bahrain, China PR, DPR Korea, at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Sports City Stadium India, Jordan, Kyrgyz Republic, Lebanon, on January 5, with the championship Oman, Palestine, the Philippines, Qatar, culminating 28 days later at the same Syria, Thailand, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, venue where the winner of the continent’s Vietnam and Yemen. most coveted prize will be crowned.

AFC QUARTERLY 15 Group A Group B Group C Group D Group E Group F A1 UAE B1 Australia C1 Korea Republic D1 IR Iran E1 Saudi Arabia F1 Japan A2 Thailand B2 Syria C2 China PR D2 Iraq E2 Qatar F2 Uzbekistan A3 India B3 Palestine C3 Kyrgyz Republic D3 Vietnam E3 Lebanon F3 Oman A4 Bahrain B4 Jordan C4 Philippines D4 Yemen E4 DPR Korea F4 Turkmenistan

UAE Thailand Australia Syria Korea Republic China PR IR Iran Iraq Saudi Arabia Qatar Japan Uzbekistan VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS Bahrain India Jordan Palestine Philippines Kyrgyz Republic Yemen Vietnam DPR Korea Lebanon Turkmenistan Oman Sat Jan 5 Sun Jan 6 Sun Jan 6 Sun Jan 6 Mon Jan 7 Mon Jan 7 Mon Jan 7 Tue Jan 8 Tue Jan 8 Wed Jan 9 Wed Jan 9 Wed Jan 9 Zayed Sports City Stadium, Al Nahyan Stadium, , Stadium, Al Maktoum Stadium, Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, Mohammed Bin Zayed Zayed Sports City Stadium, , Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Nahyan Stadium, Sharjah Stadium, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Al Ain Sharjah Al Ain Stadium, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Dubai Al Ain Abu Dhabi Sharjah

India Bahrain Jordan Palestine Kyrgyz Republic Philippines Vietnam Yemen Lebanon DPR Korea Oman Turkmenistan VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS UAE Thailand Syria Australia Korea Republic China PR IR Iran Iraq Saudi Arabia Qatar Japan Uzbekistan Thu Jan 10 Thu Jan 10 Thu Jan 10 Fri Jan 11 Fri Jan 11 Fri Jan 11 Sat Jan 12 Sat Jan 12 Sat Jan 12 Sun Jan 13 Sun Jan 13 Sun Jan 13 Zayed Sports City Stadium, Al Maktoum Stadium, Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, Rashid Stadium, Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Stadium, Sharjah Stadium, Al Maktoum Stadium, Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, Zayed Sports City Stadium, Rashid Stadium, Abu Dhabi Dubai Al Ain Dubai Al Ain Stadium, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Sharjah Dubai Al Ain Abu Dhabi Dubai

UAE India Australia Palestine Korea Republic Kyrgyz Republic IR Iran Vietnam Saudi Arabia Lebanon Japan Oman VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS Thailand Bahrain Syria Jordan China PR Philippines Iraq Yemen Qatar DPR Korea Uzbekistan Turkmenistan Mon Jan 14 Mon Jan 14 Mon Jan 15 Mon Jan 15 Wed Jan 16 Wed Jan 16 Wed Jan 16 Wed Jan 16 Thu Jan 17 Thu Jan 17 Thu Jan 17 Thu Jan 17 Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Sharjah Stadium, Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Stadium, Rashid Stadium, Al Maktoum Stadium, Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Zayed Sports City Stadium, Sharjah Stadium, Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Ain Sharjah Al Ain Stadium, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Dubai Dubai Al Ain Abu Dhabi Sharjah Al Ain Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Round of 16 Round of 16 Round of 16 Round of 16 Round of 16 Round of 16 Round of 16 Round of 16 2nd Group A 1st Group D 1st Group B 1st Group F 1st Group A 2nd Group B 1st Group C 1st Group E VS VS VS VS VS VS VS VS 2nd Group C 3rd Group B/E/F 3rd Group A/C/D 2nd Group E 3rd Group C/D/E 2nd Group F 3rd Group A/B/F 2nd Group D

Sun Jan 20 Sun Jan 20 Sun Jan 20 Mon Jan 21 Mon Jan 21 Mon Jan 21 Tue Jan 22 Tue Jan 22 Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Maktoum Stadium, Sharjah Stadium, Zayed Sports City Stadium, Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium, Rashid Stadium, Al Nahyan Stadium, Al Ain Stadium, Abu Dhabi Dubai Sharjah Abu Dhabi Al Ain Dubai Abu Dhabi

Quarter-Final Quarter-Final Quarter-Final Quarter-Final

VS VS VS VS

Thu Jan 24 Semi-Final Thu Jan 24 Fri Jan 25 Semi-Final Fri Jan 25 Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Maktoum Stadium, Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Zayed Sports City Stadium, Stadium, Abu Dhabi Dubai Al Ain Abu Dhabi VS VS

Mon Jan 28 Tue Jan 29 Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Ain Stadium, Abu Dhabi

FINAL Friday Feb 1 Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi IN FOCUS: UNITED ARAB EMIRATES IN FOCUS: THAILAND

GROUP A GROUP A UNITED ARAB EMIRATES THAILAND

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

36 Matches 20 Matches 12 Won 1 Won 8 Drawn 8 Drawn 16 Lost 11 Lost History: History:

Runners-Up 1996; Third Third Place 1972; Group Place 2015; Fourth Place Stage 2007, 2004, 2000, 1992; Group Stage: 2011, 1996, 1992 2007, 2004, 1988, 1984, 1980

he United Arab Emirates have KEY PLAYER: ne of the most improved KEY PLAYER: never won the AFC Asian sides in Asia over the Cup, but no other nation last few years, Thailand has come closer to Asian have risen from a Chanathip glory than they have without regional superpower in actually lifting the trophy. Southeast Asia, where ith Omar Songkrasin As hosts in 1996, the UAE the War Elephants have ew players in Asia generate Abdulrahman ruled out with topped their group ahead dominated the AFF excitement when on the ball injury, all eyes turn to the of Kuwait, Korea Republic and Indonesia, (ASEAN Football Federation) Championship, quite like Thailand’s tricky 2015 AFC Asian Cup Top Scorer Ali before defeating Iraq in the last eight and W to become a serious player on the continental forwardF . Mabkhout to be the poster boy for the KuwaitT in the semi-finals to advance to a first scene.O The Japan-based 25-year-old UAE at the 2019 edition. continental final. In the qualifying campaign for the 2018 has impressed in both the AFC While the striker has started the But, in front of home support in Abu Dhabi, FIFA World Cup, Thailand made it to the final Champions League and the domestic league season in typically the Emiratis lost out as regional rivals Saudi round for the first time since 2002, and earned J.League over the past two years prolific form, the Al Jazira man will Arabia claimed the title after a 4-2 penalty impressive draws against both Australia and and his next task will be to inspire need to repeat his heroics of four shootout victory followed a scoreless draw. the United Arab Emirates in the process. his country to a strong showing in years ago should the Whites wish to After failing to qualify for the 2000 edition Serbian coach will now the UAE. go all the way this time. and exiting at the group stage in 2004, 2007 be aiming to take their game to the next level, and 2011, the 2015 tournament in Australia and will look to add some defensive stability to was where the UAE excelled once again. a team more known for its exciting attacking Local coach helmed four years in which the likes of Omar prowess than rearguard steel. Leuven in Belgium’s second division. ago when, after advancing from the group Abdulrahman, and Ali What will be pleasing for Rajevac is the The experienced quartet form stage, the UAE claimed a memorable Mabkhout all shone. number of his players now opting to play the backbone of this Thai national penalty shootout win over defending Current head coach Alberto abroad, with all three of Chanathip Songkrasin, side, and in an expanded 24-team champions Japan in the quarter-finals. A 2-0 Zaccheroni, who led Japan to the and tournament they will be targeting defeat to ’s Socceroos 2011 AFC Asian Cup title in Qatar, challenging themselves in Japan’s J.League a spot in the knockout rounds for followed in the semi-finals, before the will look to repeat his magic once with Consadole , the first time since they hosted the Emiratis defeated Iraq 3-2 to claim third more and steer the Whites to glory and Vissel respectively, while goalkeeper competition and finished third back place and a memorable tournament on home soil. Kawin Thamsatchanan made the move to OH in 1972.

AFC QUARTERLY 19 IN FOCUS: INDIA IN FOCUS: BAHRAIN

GROUP A GROUP A INDIA BAHRAIN

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

10 Matches 19 Matches 2 Won 4 Won 1 Drawn 5 Drawn 7 Lost 10 Lost History: History:

Runners-Up 1964; Group Fourth Place 2004; Group Stage 2011, 1984 Stage 2015, 2011, 2007, 1988

tephen Constantine’s men KEY PLAYER: ince winning FIFA’s most KEY PLAYER: will be making just their improved team award in fourth appearance at the 2004 after their fourth- AFC Asian Cup, and while place finish in that year’s they don’t have an extensive AFC Asian Cup, Bahrain history in the tournament, have qualified for every legend of Indian football, Sunil idfielder Jamal Rashid they did come close to continental competition Chhetri boasts more caps and plays a key role in the winning the third edition of since and will appear in more goals than any other centre of the park for the the competition in 1964, finishing as runners-up their fifth successive tournament in the United Aplayer for the South Asian country. WestM Asians, creating opportunities in the four-team round robin tournament. Arab Emirates. The man for the big occasion scored for his teammates as well as SIn 2019 they will be looking to go one SIn 2004, Bahrain drew with hosts China crucial goals in the third round of making bursting runs into the box. better than their group stage exit in their last before a 3-1 victory over Indonesia secured qualifying as India advanced to a first The side’s designated penalty taker appearance in 2011, when they qualified as the a place in the quarter-finals on what was only AFC Asian Cup since 2011, when the scored twice at the 2017 Gulf Cup winner of the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup. their second appearance in the competition, striker netted twice in three games. as Bahrain reached the semi-finals On that occasion they were dealt a tough having also qualified for the 1988 edition. and he will be crucial if they are to draw when they were pitted alongside Australia, Bahrain recorded a famous 2-1 victory over advance in UAE 2019. Korea Republic and Bahrain, and in the end the Korea Republic in 2007, but were eliminated at challenge proved too much as the Blue Tigers the group stage by a solitary point. The West suffered defeat in all three matches. Asians defeated India in 2011 and then claimed The improvement from India since that a memorable win over Qatar in 2015, but again tournament, however, has been profound and many of the side aged 25 or under. fell short of reaching the quarter-finals. over the past year, while the attack under Constantine, who was appointed in 2015, The leader of the team Current boss Miroslav Soukup moved to will be led by veteran , they came through AFC Asian Cup qualifying is undoubtedly one of the Bahrain in 2016 after a two-year stint with who has over 40 goals for Bahrain. as one of Asia’s most in-form teams, going experienced heads, JSW Yemen. The Czech led the Reds to the semi- Soukup will also be encouraged on a 13-match unbeaten run between March Bengaluru marksman Sunil Chhetri, finals of the 2017 Gulf Cup and earned Bahrain by the scoring form of Isa Al Bari who 2016 and March 2017, before defeat to Kyrgyz who is one of just two players a place in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup after was the star of Malkiya Club’s unlikely Republic. remaining from the 2011 squad topping their qualifying group. rise to the summit of the Bahraini The experienced Englishman has moulded alongside his club teammate On the pitch, creative midfielder Jamal League and subsequent impressive a team that mixes experience and youth, with Gurpreet Singh. Rashid has been in fine form for his country AFC Cup debut.

AFC QUARTERLY 21 IN FOCUS: AUSTRALIA IN FOCUS: SYRIA

GROUP B GROUP B AUSTRALIA SYRIA

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

16 Matches 18 Matches 10 Won 7 Won 3 Drawn 2 Drawn 3 Lost 9 Lost History: History:

Champions 2015; Runners- Group Stage: 2011, 1996, Up 2011; Quarter-Finals 1988, 1984, 1980 2007

ustralia will be looking to KEY PLAYER: yria have appeared in five KEY PLAYER: defend their AFC Asian previous AFC Asian Cup Cup crown after they won tournaments and, after their first continental title on missing out in 2015, return home soil in 2015, following off the back of grabbing Omar Khribin an extra-time 2-1 victory global headlines in the f Australia are to retain their he 2017 AFC Player of the over Korea Republic at 2018 FIFA World Cup continental crown, Mathew Leckie Year Omar Khribin was the first in Sydney. qualifying campaign. will likely play a big part as the Syrian to win the award. His Australia excelled in front of home support The Qasioun Eagles’ hopes lie on the -basedI wide forward has tenT goals in the 2018 FIFA World Cup under former coach Ange Postecoglou and shoulders of a generation led by the 2017 developed into a key figure for the qualifiers took the Eagles of Qasioun theA Socceroos saw a series of stand-out SAFC Player of the Year Omar Khribin and Socceroos over the past couple of into the play-off against Australia. performances from their stars including prolific all-action forward Omar Al Soma. years. Leckie has the ability to deliver Syrian fans will be looking for the tournament MVP . The latter’s last-minute free-kick came pin-point crosses from the right and 24-year-old’s partnership with Omar Al In the final it was midfielder , within inches of earning Syria an equaliser was one of his country’s standout Soma to deliver the goals as they aim on as a substitute, who proved the hero when that would have put them within 180 minutes performers at the FIFA World Cup to progress past the group stage for he popped up with a 105th-minute winner to of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Instead it rattled 2018. the first time in their history. seal victory for the Green and Gold. the post and a historic qualifying campaign There’s a new figure in the dugout as came to an end with a 3-2 aggregate defeat is back in charge of the at the hands of Australia in the play-off stage national team after he guided the Socceroos after the Syrians had earlier defied all odds to a quarter-final appearance in their first ever in the final saw Japan lift the trophy. to finish third in their group. in their three subsequent AFC Asian Cup back in 2007. Key to Australia’s campaign for Syria qualified for their first AFC Asian appearances between 1984 On that occasion it was Japan that ended back-to-back titles in 2019 will Cup in Kuwait in 1980 when wins against and 1996 but failed to make it Australia’s campaign with a penalty shootout be Hertha Berlin forward Mathew Bangladesh and China PR in addition to a beyond the group stage, before a victory in the last eight after Australia had Leckie, who has excelled in the draw against the Islamic Republic of Iran memorable 2-1 victory over Saudi struggled in the group stage, and it was the German , Brighton & was an impressive debut that saw them Arabia in the 2011 group stage Samurai Blue who again, in 2011, denied Hove Albion goalkeeper Mat Ryan narrowly miss out on a place in the semi- proved the highlight of their most Australia their first AFC Asian Cup title after and stylish Celtic midfielder Tom finals. recent showing on the continent’s ’s spectacular extra-time winner Rogic. The West Asians managed four wins biggest stage.

AFC QUARTERLY 23 IN FOCUS: PALESTINE IN FOCUS: JORDAN

GROUP B GROUP B PALESTINE JORDAN

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

3 Matches 11 Matches 0 Won 4 Won 0 Drawn 4 Drawn 3 Lost 3 Lost History: History:

Group Stage 2015 Quarter-Finals 2011, 2004; Group Stage 2015

alestine made history in KEY PLAYER: ordan don’t have to look back KEY PLAYER: May 2014 when Ashraf too far to find inspiration for Numan scored to defeat the success at UAE 2019 as they Philippines 1-0 in the final of will be aiming to match, or Musa Al the AFC Challenge Cup and Sameh Maraaba better, the feats of the sides qualify for the AFC Asian that reached the quarter-finals ameh Maraaba was Taamari Cup for the first time in their in 2004 and 2011. he young hope of Jordanian Palestine’s top scorer in the history. Jordan had never featured football, Musa Al Taamari’s 2019 AFC Asian Cup qualifying The West Asians had previously reached in an AFC Asian Cup until 2004 but goals fired club Al campaign. His seven goals included the quarter-finals of the 2006 AFC Challenge S advanced all the way to the last eight in their JazeeraT into the latter rounds of four in the 8-1 victory over . PCup and finished fourth in 2012 before the Jfirst appearance under the late Egyptian the 2018 AFC Cup before earning The 26-year-old also netted a brace 2014 victory capped a steady improvement coach Mahmoud El Gohary. him a move to Cypriot side against Malaysia, and will be looking over the past decade. The West Asians showed unwavering APOEL. The 21-year-old oozes to help Palestine get their maiden win Drawn in a tough group in 2015 alongside defensive toughness, emerging as runners- confidence, has bags of pace and, in the AFC Asian Cup, in their second former winners Japan and Iraq, as well as up in their group without conceding a single with an excellent left foot, is a participation, in 2019. neighbours Jordan, Palestine suffered three goal after 0-0 draws against Korea Republic threat from both inside and outside defeats from three, but gained valuable and the UAE and a 2-0 win against Kuwait. the box. experience along the way. Another strong campaign in Qatar in 2011 What followed was a strong showing in saw Jordan again progress to the quarter- the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 qualifying finals with an unbeaten record in the group campaign when they were seconds away Asian rivals finished marginally stage, drawing against eventual champions be familiar with the host venues from drawing with Saudi Arabia and then did ahead in the final standings, but Japan and beating 2007 runners-up Saudi having played in the UAE Pro tie with the United Arab Emirates on route to Palestine advance to the continental Arabia, before narrowly losing 2-1 to League since 2016. advancing to the third round of qualifiers. competition as a side on the rise. Uzbekistan in the quarter-finals. Goalkeeper , Palestine then stormed to qualification Back among the continent’s elite Musa Al Taamari performed admirably meanwhile, has played in all after winning their first four games, including for the second time, Palestine will aim for Jordan at the AFC U23 Championship three of Jordan’s AFC Asian Cup a superb 2-1 victory over Oman in Al Ram, to continue their recent improvement China 2018 and now plays a key role for the campaigns and, with more than to secure their passage to the Emirates. A and gain their first points at the senior side. The striker is well supported 140 caps, is arguably the country’s narrow 1-0 defeat in Oman meant their West continental competition. by playmaker Yaseen Al Bakhit, who will most legendary player.

AFC QUARTERLY 25 IN FOCUS: KOREA REPUBLC IN FOCUS: CHINA PR

GROUP C GROUP C KOREA REPUBLC CHINA PR

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

62 Matches 51 Matches 32 Won 20 Won 16 Drawn 13 Drawn 14 Lost 18 Lost History: History:

Champions 1960, 1956; Runners-Up 2004, 1984; Runners-Up 2015, 1988, Third Place 1992, 1976; 1980, 1972; Third Place Fourth Place 2000, 1988; 2011, 2007, 2000, 1964; Quarter-Finals 2015, 1996; Quarter-Finals 2004, 1996; Group Stage 2011, 2007, Group Stage 1984 1980

orea Republic will be KEY PLAYER: ith FIFA World KEY PLAYER: determined to go one step Cup-winning coach further after suffering a in heartbreaking defeat in the charge, a lot will be 2015 AFC Asian Cup final. Son Heung-min expected of China Wu Lei An extra-time goal heading into the sia’s most expensive export et to make his second from Australia midfielder AFC Asian Cup Son Heung-min will be appearance in the James Troisi was enough UAE 2019. the man Korea Republic competition, Wu Lei will be to end the Taeguk Warriors’ hopes of a first A positive foundation was built at the 2015 Ahope can drive them towards a Samong China’s main threats in continental championship since the second AFC Asian Cup in Australia when they made first continental title since 1960. front of goal. The speedy forward editionK of the competition, some 58 years ago, Wit to the quarter-finals, where they were Arguably the continent’s best is part of an exhilarating frontline and see the Socceroos lift their maiden title on defeated by the home nation after a player, Son is developing into a at Shanghai SIPG and will be a home soil. double secured a 2-0 scoreline. global star at Tottenham Hotspur force to be reckoned with if his The result saw Korea Republic finish a While they have yet to taste success on and the forward will look to make club form can be replicated in the record fourth time as runners-up, but there is the continental stage, undoubtedly their best up for losing the 2015 final to UAE. no doubt that coach ’s talent- performance came when they hosted the Australia. filled side have the quality to end over half a tournament in 2004. Topping Group A with century of hurt. two wins and a draw, two penalties Chief among their arsenal is Tottenham helped them to a 3-0 win over Iraq in the last Hotspur star forward Son Heung-min. The eight, setting up a showdown with the Islamic 26-year-old, the most expensive Asian player in Europe in Hellas Verona midfielder Republic of Iran in the semi-final. veteran midfielder Zheng, named in history, has smashed continental scoring Lee Seung-woo and Hamburg SV After the scores were locked at 1-1 at in the Team of the Tournament in records since joining the forward Hwang Hee-chan. the end of extra-time, Liu Yunfei was the 2004, remains a key member of giants and is considered by many to be the Since taking over after the 2018 hero for the home side, saving Yahya the side 14 years later, but it is the best currently active player from Asia. FIFA World Cup, Bento has achieved Golmohammadi’s spot-kick to send China into new generation of talent – the likes Playing his football in the same league as some impressive results in friendly a final with regional rivals Japan, although it of exciting young forwards Wu Lei, Son, Ki Sung-yueng continues to excel in matches, but at UAE 2019 he and was the Samurai Blue who came out on top Zhang Yuning and Wei Shihao – midfield for Newcastle United, while there is Korea Republic will be looking for the following a 3-1 win. that China will be looking to for further exciting young talent plying their trade ultimate continental prize. Remarkably, Guangzhou Evergrande’s success in 2019.

AFC QUARTERLY 27 IN FOCUS: KYRGYZ REPUBLIC IN FOCUS: PHILIPPINES

GROUP C GROUP C KYRGYZ REPUBLIC PHILIPPINES

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

Debutants Debutants

yrgyz Republic are KEY PLAYER: he Philippines will be one of KEY PLAYER: appearing in their first three teams making their AFC AFC Asian Cup after a Asian Cup debut in 2019. comprehensive 5-1 victory Anton The improvement in the Phil over Myanmar last March fortunes of the Azkals over confirmed the Group A Zemlianukhin the last decade has been Younghusband runners-up spot in the third ix goals in Kyrgyz remarkable. Regionally in t was Phil Younghusband’s round of qualifying. Republic’s final four AFC the AFF (ASEAN Football 50th goal for the Philippines A long journey to the United Arab Emirates Asian Cup qualifiers Federation) Championship, they won only one that sealed his country’s began with a 3-1 victory over Bangladesh in Smarked Anton Zemlianukhin as of 21 matches between 1996 and 2007 (losing maidenI AFC Asian Cup theK second round of qualifiers in June 2015. the Central Asians’ standout 19T and drawing just one) and did not qualify for appearance. The Central Asians eventually finished third performer. the 2008 tournament. The prolific striker, 31, has in their group behind Australia and Jordan, The 30-year-old striker’s goals But gradually their fortunes have improved, been part of the Philippines but ahead of Tajikistan and Bangladesh to helped his country claim 10 and they made the semi-finals in three set-up for more than a decade gain automatic passage into the third round points from 12, including winning successive tournaments in 2010, 2012 and and netted four times in the of qualifiers. their final three qualification 2014. final round of qualifying as the Drawn in a four-team group with India, games, to secure a tournament The turnaround in form has coincided with Southeast Asians joined the Myanmar and Macau, Kyrgyz Republic debut at the AFC Asian Cup. their policy of reaching out to the Filipino continent’s elite for the first time. started with a 1-0 victory over Macau, before diaspora around the world, something that has a 1-0 defeat to eventual group winners seen the likes of Spain-born Javier Patino, India. A 2-2 draw in Myanmar followed after A victory over India in their final Australia-born and England- The 30-year-old, who is the being two goals up, but the Central Asians Group A game could have seen born earn call-ups to play for all-time record goalscorer for the recovered to beat Macau 4-3 and move into the Central Asians finish on top of the Azkals, adding important international Philippines and whose brother second place in the standings. the standings, but India’s late goal experience to the side. James also plays for the national With Kyrgyz Republic and Myanmar in a in the 2-1 win for Kyrgyz Republic Impressively for a team not known for its team, scored five of his side’s 13 battle for second place, the sides faced off in ensured the South Asians stayed success on the continent, the Philippines went goals throughout qualifying, including their penultimate games, but the Southeast marginally ahead on goal difference through the third round of qualifying undefeated, his 50th goal for his country in a Asians were no match for them as Anton as the teams ended on the same with another of their diaspora, England-born Phil 2-1 final-day win over Tajikistan to Zemlianukhin netted twice in a 5-1 win. points. Younghusband, playing a key role. confirm qualification.

AFC QUARTERLY 29 IN FOCUS: IR IRAN IN FOCUS: IRAQ

GROUP D GROUP D IR IRAN IRAQ

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

62 Matches 35 Matches 37 Won 13 Won 18 Drawn 7 Drawn 7 Lost 15 Lost History: History:

Champions 1976, 1972, Champions 2007; Fourth 1968; Third Place 2004, Place 2015, 1976; Quarter- 1996, 1988, 1980; Fourth Finals 2011, 2004, 2000, Place 1984; Quarter-Finals 1996; Group Stage 1972 2015, 2011, 2007, 2000; Group Stage 1992

iven the Islamic KEY PLAYER: raq stunned the world with their KEY PLAYER: Republic of Iran’s historic victory at the 2007 AFC Asian success in qualifying for Cup when headed four of the last six FIFA Alireza home to defeat Saudi Arabia 1-0 in World Cup tournaments, the final in as the war-torn Ahmed Yasin it’s hard to believe nation claimed a first continental title. Jahanbakhsh nlike most of his teammates, they haven’t tasted fter an outstanding season The Lions of Mesopotamia will Ahmed Yasin has spent nearly continental success at club AZ have hopes of repeating that feat, his entire career playing since 1976. Alkmaar, exciting wide after performing well in the latter stages abroad. The forward was born in Team Melli have won the tournament on Aforward of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers U but grew up in Sweden Gthree previous occasions in three successive made the step up to the English andI boasting stars such as -based Ali where he has been playing since the editions between 1968 and 1976, with two of Premier League with a big Adnan and several players who have won age of 16, bar a short spell in Qatar. those (1968 and 1976) coming at home. money move to Brighton & Hove multiple AFC Cup titles with Air Force Club. Capable of playing as a central However, they have been knocked Albion. Iran’s mean defence Iraq have reached two semi-finals and striker or on either flank, Yasin’s out in the quarter-finals in the last three stole the headlines in qualifying four quarter-finals in the competition, but it versatility has helped him rack up over competitions, twice by Korea Republic, in but much will rest on attackers was their story in 2007 in Southeast Asia 50 caps for the Lions of Mesopotamia 2007 and 2011, and most memorably by like Jahanbakhsh if a first title that remains their crowning glory. since making his debut in 2012. regional rivals Iraq in Canberra in 2015, when since 1976 is to be achieved. Topping a group comprising Australia, they came from behind on three occasions Thailand and Oman, they then beat before losing 7-6 in a thrilling penalty Vietnam 2-0 in the quarter-finals and shootout. their defensive strength by conceding overcame Korea Republic on penalties in West Asians were involved in one Since then, Iran have firmly established just five goals. But it’s in attack the semi-finals, before Mahmoud’s header of the games of the tournament themselves among the best teams in Asia where their true strengths lie, and against the Saudis in the final sealed a 1-0 when they defeated neighbours under coach , and they enter Queiroz has at his disposal some win. the Islamic Republic of Iran on the tournament as one of the favourites to go of Asia’s finest attacking talent In 2011, Iraq were eliminated in the penalties following a thrilling 3-3 all the way. including England-based pair Alireza quarter-finals after a 118th-minute draw. However, they were then In qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Jahanbakhsh and , Australia winner, before another eliminated by eventual runners- Cup they swept all before them by going Russia-based striker memorable performance followed in 2015. up Korea Republic in the semi- undefeated in all 18 matches, and showed and Al Gharafa forward . After again reaching the quarter-finals, the finals.

AFC QUARTERLY 31 IN FOCUS: VIETNAM IN FOCUS: YEMEN

GROUP D GROUP D VIETNAM YEMEN

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

4 Matches 1 Won 1 Drawn 2 Lost Debutants History:

Quarter-Finals 2007

he 2019 AFC Asian Cup marks KEY PLAYER: emen will make their maiden KEY PLAYER: a return to the continental appearance at the AFC Asian competition for Vietnam for the Cup after finishing second in first time since they co-hosted Nguyen their qualifying group following the tournament with Indonesia, an unbeaten campaign. Ala Al Sasi Malaysia and Thailand in 2007. The West Asians Quang Hai fter the retirement of Their only other guyen Quang Hai has been progressed to the third round Yemen’s all-time top appearances on the grandest the standout player in a of qualifying after overcoming goalscorer Ali Al Nono, stage came in the first two editions – in 1956 talented young generation of the Maldives in a play-off round, before being Ala Al Sasi took on the mantle and 1960 – when they were entered as South VietnamN players and was the creative paired in a group with the Philippines, Tajikistan A as the nation’s talisman. After an Vietnam.T spark of a side that reached the 2018 andY Nepal. experiment in the Iraqi league in Spurred on by a vociferous home crowd 11 AFC U23 Championship final. An opening-day 2-1 victory over the Tajiks 2013, the playmaker’s second stint years ago, the Golden Stars had a big 2-0 win With a wand of a left foot, the – in which Ala Al Sasi scored the decisive abroad saw him join Qatari side Al in their opening match against the United Arab 21-year-old is a danger from distance goal that would eventually prove crucial – was Sailiyah where he currently plies Emirates, and followed it up with a 1-1 draw and from set-pieces, and UAE 2019 followed by four successive draws ahead of his trade. against Qatar. could be where the young starlet their final group game with Nepal. While they lost to Japan in their final group makes his mark on the grandest Yemen and Tajikistan went into the last game stage match, the four points were enough for stage. level on seven points, but the Central Asians’ a spot in the quarter-finals. But Vietnam then defeat in the Philippines meant Yemen’s ran into a red-hot Iraq, who would go on to win qualification was already secured, by virtue of their first AFC Asian Cup, as the Southeast With former Korea Republic a better head-to-head record, before a 2-1 win but ultimately failed to advance. Asians’ tournament ended in the last eight after international Park Hang-seo in the over the Nepalese rounded off their campaign After being unable to make a 2-0 defeat. dugout, the core of that U-23 side in style. an impact in the 2015 qualifiers, While they are relatively inexperienced at will form the nucleus of the team that In the 2011 qualifying campaign, Yemen Yemen came back strongly this senior level on the continental stage, their U-23 travels to the UAE in January 2019, ran eventual champions Japan close home time round as a highly impressive side grabbed the headlines at the AFC U23 spearheaded by exciting attacking duo and away, suffering a 2-1 defeat in East Asia unbeaten campaign in the third Championship in China in January, reaching Nguyen Cong Phuong and Nguyen before losing a 2-0 lead in Sanaa to end up on round culminated in their historic the final before losing 2-1 to Uzbekistan after Quang Hai, and dynamic midfielder the wrong end of a 3-2 scoreline. They also achievement of progressing to the extra-time. Luong Xuan Truong. recorded wins over Hong Kong and Bahrain United Arab Emirates.

AFC QUARTERLY 33 IN FOCUS: SAUDI ARABIA IN FOCUS: QATAR

GROUP E GROUP E SAUDI ARABIA QATAR

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

44 Matches 32 Matches 19 Won 6 Won 13 Drawn 11 Drawn 12 Lost 15 Lost History: History:

Champions 1996, 1988, Quarter-Finals 2011, 2000; 1984; Runners-Up 2007, Group Stage: 2015, 2007, 2000, 1992; Group Stage: 2004, 1992, 1988, 1984, 2015, 2011, 2004 1980

audi Arabia are one of the KEY PLAYER: atar have made nine KEY PLAYER: most decorated nations in appearances in the AFC Asian football history, with Asian Cup and have three AFC Asian Cup titles hosted the competition to their name. Abdullah Otayf on two occasions, with The Green Falcons their best performances ne of several footballing he 22-year-old playmaker dominated continental coming when they brothers, Abdullah Otayf burst onto the scene in 2014, football in the 1980s reached the quarter-finals has arguably outshone his helping Qatar win the AFC U-19 and 1990s, making five consecutive final in 2000 and 2011. siblingsO and become one of Saudi Championship.T Akram Afif hails from appearances. Saudi Arabia also appeared in When Qatar hosted the competition for the Arabia’s key players, excelling at the a footballing family; his father played Severy edition of the FIFA World Cup between firstQ time, in 1988, they defeated the United Arab 2018 FIFA World Cup. The cultured and coached in the Qatari League 1994 and 2006, but the 21st century brought a Emirates and Japan, but failed to overcome midfielder is tidy in possession and and his brother, Ali, is also a Qatari decline, with one runners-up finish in 2007 the Korea Republic and the Islamic Republic of Iran, capable of operating in a holding role international. only bright spot amid three disappointing AFC finishing third in the group and exiting at the first or as a playmaker. The Al Hilal man Capable of playing centrally or on Asian Cup performances. hurdle. is a favourite of Juan Antonio either flank, Afif currently plies his Saudi Arabia have failed to qualify from the This time, it will be Felix Sanchez who will lead and has been an ever-present for the trade at Al Sadd, having previously group stage in three of their last four AFC Asian Qatar into the competition. The Spanish head Green Falcons under the Argentine. represented Eupen in Belgium and Cup appearances, but the United Arab Emirates coach has tasted both glory and disappointment Sporting Gijon in Spain. brings back good memories for the Saudis, who in Asian competitions. In 2014, Sanchez led Qatar beat their Emirati hosts in the 1996 final to lift to the AFC U-19 Championship title in Myanmar their third and, to date, last title. replaced by then Juan to qualify for the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup. U23 Championship in China. Since their disappointment at the 2015 AFC Antonio Pizzi soon after. Two years later, Sanchez took a team In 2015, Mahdi Ali led a generation Asian Cup with Cosmin Olaroiu at the helm, The Argentine oversaw a mixed FIFA composed of largely the same group of players to of United Arab Emirates players he things have begun to look brighter for Saudi World Cup campaign at Russia 2018, the 2016 AFC U23 Championship on home soil, had coached from U-19 upwards to Arabia, who focused on qualifying for the with a demoralising defeat to the hosts but their campaign ended in heartbreak as they their best ever AFC Asian Cup finish 2018 FIFA World Cup with in followed by positive performances finished fourth and failed to qualify for the 2016 on foreign soil. Sanchez will take charge. against Uruguay and Egypt, but now all Olympic Games. inspiration as he looks to emulate the Indeed, they succeeded, only for van Marwijk eyes will be on a rise back to the fore of Then, at the beginning of 2018, Sanchez’s success of Qatar’s neighbours with a to depart after their qualification. He was Asian football at UAE 2019. U-23s went one better to finish third at the AFC squad that he knows inside out.

AFC QUARTERLY 35 IN FOCUS: LEBANON IN FOCUS: DPR KOREA

GROUP E GROUP E LEBANON DPR KOREA

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

3 Matches 15 Matches 0 Won 3 Won 2 Drawn 2 Drawn 1 Lost 10 Lost History: History:

Group Stage 2000 Fourth Place 1980; Group Stage 2015, 2011, 1992

ebanon will be entering the KEY PLAYER: PR Korea secured their KEY PLAYER: AFC Asian Cup for only fifth appearance at the the second time in their AFC Asian Cup following history when they arrive in Hassan a 2-0 victory over Hong the United Arab Emirates in Kong in last Jong Il-gwan January 2019. Maatouk March that saw them n the absence of 2018 AFC Their only appearance s Lebanon take part in their finish second in a group Cup top scorer An Il-bom, came 18 years ago, when maiden AFC Asian Cup away comprising Lebanon, Hong attacker Jong Il-gwan remains they hosted the tournament in 2000. Having from home, Kong and Malaysia. DPR Korea’s key attacking outlet only played three AFC Asian Cup fixtures, Awill be familiar with his surroundings, Having reached the semi-finals on their I for their AFC Asian Cup UAE LebanonL will be looking to improve on having spent five years playing for debutD appearance in 1980 in Kuwait before 2019 campaign. As well as the their record which saw them exit the home UAE sides Ajman and Fujairah. being eliminated after two late Korea Republic attacking impetus he provides, tournament without a win. The left-footed forward returned goals, DPR Korea exited at the group stage Jong brings a high degree of work The Cedars finished last in a group which to Lebanon in 2017, joining Nejmeh. but claimed an impressive 1-1 draw with rate from the front to complement featured the Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq Maatouk netted seven times in eventual champions Japan in their 1992 his composed finishing in front of and Thailand, but gained commendable qualifying, including in five of campaign. goal. draws against Iraq and Thailand after a 4-0 Lebanon’s six games in the third The finest moment in DPR Korea’s recent defeat at the hands of Iran. round. footballing history came in qualifying for the Former Nejmeh star Abbas Chahrour had 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, where the honour of scoring Lebanon’s first ever they performed admirably in a narrow 2-1 goal in the tournament, with a 28th-minute then coach Giuseppe Giannini and defeat to . More recently, the East Asians strike against Iraq, before another Nejmeh recruited Miodrag Radulovic. But their most famous showing was at the won back-to-back AFC Challenge icon, Moussa Hojeij, scored the equaliser Three years on, the Montenegrin 1966 FIFA World Cup in England when Pak Cups in 2010 and 2012, while they to make it 2-2 and help Lebanon gain their has delivered for the West Asians Do-ik scored the only goal of the game in a have qualified for the past two AFC first point in the continental competition. and with stars such as Hassan stunning 1-0 victory over Italy to advance to Asian Cups, only to fall at the group Lebanon came agonisingly close to Maatouk, Soony Saad and Joan the quarter-finals at the Italians’ expense. DPR stage. They return for the third qualifying for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, only Oumari, Lebanon have every Korea then led 3-0 against in the successive time having suffered missing out on goal difference to China PR. chance of making a statement in last eight, only to lose 5-3 in another classic just one defeat in the third round of As a result, the Cedars parted way with 2019. encounter that is still talked about to this day. qualifying.

AFC QUARTERLY 37 IN FOCUS: JAPAN IN FOCUS: UZBEKISTAN

GROUP F GROUP F JAPAN UZBEKISTAN

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

41 Matches 24 Matches 24 Won 11 Won 12 Drawn 3 Drawn 5 Lost 10 Lost History: History:

Champions 2011, 2004, Fourth Place 2011; 2000, 1992; Fourth Place Quarter-Finals 2015, 2007, 2007; Quarter-Finals 2015, 2004; Group Stage 2000, 1996; Group Stage 1988 1996

our-time champions KEY PLAYER: he White Wolves of KEY PLAYER: Japan secured their ninth Uzbekistan have been one consecutive appearance at the of Asia’s most consistent finals of the AFC Asian Cup performers over the last and the Samurai Blue will be decade, with three quarter- looking to re-establish their final appearances and a art of the last Japan side zbekistan captain dominance of the continental fourth-place finish at the last to win the AFC Asian Cup, Odil Ahmedov will be game after a disappointing four editions of the AFC Asian in 2011, Maya Yoshida has appearing at his third campaign at the 2015 edition. Cup. Pgone on to establish himself as AFCU Asian Cup after announcing Possessing the finest AFC Asian Cup However, they have never quite been instrumental in the Samurai Blue his arrival in style in 2011 with recordF in recent history, Japan have won ableT to take their game to that next level backline. The defender helped a stunning 40-yard goal against four of the last seven tournaments with their to compete for silverware. Their best the East Asians flourish in their Qatar. maiden title coming at the 1992 competition. performance in the AFC Asian Cup came sixth successive FIFA World Cup, A calming presence in the A defeat in the quarter-finals four years in 2011, when they made the semi-finals, and his organisational skills and centre of the park, the Shanghai later was then followed by back-to-back titles only to be comprehensively beaten 6-0 by positional awareness will be key in SIPG man will be key to the in 2000 and 2004, with a fourth place finish eventual runners-up Australia. the UAE. Central Asians’ chances of at the co-hosted event in Southeast Asia They once again only narrowly missed reaching a first final. in 2007 coming before their return to the qualification for the FIFA World Cup in 2018, throne as kings of the continent at the 2011 drawing 0-0 with Korea Republic in their tournament in Qatar. final match in to not only miss out Japan entered Australia 2015 as defending and 2018 editions. on automatic qualification, but also a play- Khamdamov and Odiljon champions and favourites, so their last eight The Samurai Blue’s impressive off spot on goal difference to Syria, which Xamrobekov are exciting young defeat to the United Arab Emirates was a performances at the FIFA World Cup prompted coach Samvel Babayan to step starlets, while Shanghai SIPG result that stunned many. Nevertheless, Russia 2018, and morale-boosting down from his role. star midfielder Odil Ahmedov, who Japan retain their status as one of the victories in the subsequent friendly Nevertheless, a new wave of talent looks continues to deliver for club and powerhouses of Asian football, having matches, show that things are set to take Uzbekistan forward as they country with minimum fuss and also represented the continent at the FIFA looking up for the four-time Asian target an improvement on their quarter-final fanfare, will be the man charged World Cup finals on six occasions, including champions ahead of the continental appearance at the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. with inspiring his nation to new reaching the Round of 16 at the 2002, 2010 showpiece. , Dostonbek heights.

AFC QUARTERLY 39 IN FOCUS: OMAN IN FOCUS: TURKMENISTAN

GROUP F GROUP F OMAN TURKMENISTAN

Asian Cup Record Asian Cup Record

9 Matches 3 Matches 2 Won 0 Won 3 Drawn 1 Drawn 4 Lost 2 Lost History: History:

Group Stage 2015, 2007, Group Stage 2004 2004

man won their their first KEY PLAYER: fter declaring independence KEY PLAYER: international trophy since from the former winning the Gulf Cup in Soviet Union in 1991, 2009 after they defeated Jameel Al Turkmenistan made their Arslanmyrat the United Arab Emirates first and, so far, only on penalties at the Yahmadi appearance at the AFC Amanov beginning of 2018 to claim ne of the Reds’ brightest hopes Asian Cup back in 2004. urkmenistan captain the title for the second is young midfielder Jameel Qualifying undefeated, Arslanmyrat Amanov time. Al Yahmadi. A left-footed with four wins and two draws from their boasts experience both at And the West Asians will now be looking to right-winger,O the Al Shabab man’s six matches, they were drawn alongside homeT and abroad having played bringO a strong 2018 into this year’s AFC Asian main strength is his technique and Uzbekistan,A Iraq and three-time champions club football in Kazakhstan and Cup with hopes of making it to the knockout ability to carve out chances for himself Saudi Arabia, who they would face in their Uzbekistan. stages for the very first time. or his teammates by cutting inside opening Group C match. Now back in his homeland On their tournament debut in 2004, Oman were from the flank. Pacey and skillful, Al Nazar Bayramov put Turkmenistan ahead with Altyn Asyr, the midfielder narrowly beaten 1-0 by defending champions Yahmadi is capable of creating havoc in just the sixth minute, but a brace from skippered the Central Asians as Japan in their opening game, before claiming a in opposition’s defences, and his direct Yasser Al Qahtani looked to have seen off they advanced to their second memorable 2-2 draw with the Islamic Republic of running offers Oman a key outlet on the stubborn challenge of the Central Asians. AFC Asian Cup and first since Iran as Amad Al Hosni became the first Omani to the counter-attack. However, drama ensued as a 93rd-minute 2004. score in the continental competition. equaliser from Begencmuhammet Kulyyev A 2-0 victory over Thailand followed but Oman earned the country their first point at the were desperately unlucky to lose out on a place in game. AFC Asian Cup, but they would ultimately But, after starting their 2019 the quarter-finals as second-placed Iran finished Dutch coach , who exit at the first hurdle. AFC Asian Cup qualifying just a point above them. Oman fell at the first successfully steered Oman to their fourth Turkmenistan came close to returning campaign with a shock defeat hurdle in 2007, but they did manage a fine 1-1 AFC Asian Cup, will have the experience to the continental stage for the 2015 AFC in Guam, the Central Asians draw with Australia and were just seconds away of goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi and Ahmed Asian Cup in Australia when they finished eventually advanced to the third from claiming all three points. Mubarak to call on, while attacking duo runners-up to DPR Korea in the 2012 AFC round, where victory over Chinese The West Asians appeared at their third AFC Abdulaziz Al Muqbali and Khalid Al Hajri Challenge Cup, thus narrowly missing out on Taipei in November 2017 secured Asian Cup in Australia in 2015, with the highlight were on deadly form throughout the the automatic qualification spot granted to their place at the continental being a 1-0 victory over Kuwait in their final group qualifying campaign. the winners. tournament.

AFC QUARTERLY 41 INTERVIEW: Alireza Beiranvand

CHASING GLORY

A STRING OF EXCELLENT DISPLAYS IN THE 2018 FIFA WORLD CUP AND AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ENSURED ALIREZA BEIRANVAND ENJOYED A SUPERB YEAR. WITH THE AFC ASIAN CUP UAE 2019 NOW UPON US, THE CUSTODIAN IS DESPERATE TO END THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN’S LONG WAIT FOR THE TROPHY.

By: Peter Alsop • Photo: Lagardère Sports/Getty Images

AFC QUARTERLY 43 INTERVIEW: Alireza Beiranvand

oscow’s Luzhniki Berianvand. A dramatic second half ensued with Carlos that I worked in restaurants and at carwashes, Left & Above FIFA Below Left & Right Cup with minimal fuss and advanced into the World Cup Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 Stadium waited in “Before the World Cup, a [fake] video was Queiroz’s team showing just what they were for example, to be able to afford it. Qualifiers next stage of FIFA World Cup qualifying. It anticipation as referee published in which was lining capable of as an attacking force. Eventually, “Now I have the chance to play against the was here where they showcased a defensive ran up against me, and I felt there was some harsh following another VAR decision, Karim best footballers in the world, like at the World masterclass when, with Beiranvand as the to the sidelines to criticism, with people joking that he would score Ansarifard drew Team Melli level from the spot Cup in Russia, and live a nice life with my before the ‘keeper became an integral part of last line of defence, they conceded no goals in take a second look numerous goals past me. in added time. family and teammates. I think this is the result the starting line-up. their first nine games to progress to the global at ’s “This was one of the things that came into The European champions faced a nerve- of the hard work I put in when I was younger. Iran went on to qualify for the AFC Asian showpiece for the fifth time. challenge on Cristiano my mind when he was getting ready to take the racking final few minutes and Mehdi Taremi “I’d say half of my dreams and wishes have “We did so well in those matches and did Ronaldo, before the Islamic Republic of Iran’s had a golden opportunity to send the Iranians already come true, but my background is “After I saved the penalty, not let in a goal until our very last game against worst fears were confirmed and a penalty was into the knockout rounds, but skewed his effort always the motivation that drives me forward to I felt the weight of Syria and were the first Asian team to qualify awardedM in Portugal’s favour following a VAR wide, as Iran were ultimately eliminated. progress more and more.” for the World Cup,” recalls Beiranvand. pressure come off my (video assistant referee) review. It had been a rollercoaster campaign, with Beiranvand had narrowly missed out on the shoulders … I was able “The draw made the World Cup even more At 1-0 down in their third and final Group B the Iranians sealing a smash-and-grab win FIFA World Cup four years earlier after being to embrace the sweetest special for us as we had the former world match, Iran, who had impressed to that point at against Morocco in their first outing before named in Queiroz’s initial 30-man preliminary champions and current Europepean champions the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018, were staring another resolute defensive display in a narrow squad, before he was among the 23 just over moment of my life.” in our group. It was the toughest group in the elimination firmly in the face. A second goal 1-0 loss to Spain. They were out, but they had six months later at the 2015 AFC World Cup. would surely end their campaign and send the more than held their own against some of the Asian Cup in Australia. “You saw we were only a Portuguese, and Spain, through. world’s best and, along the way, gained many Despite not getting any game chance away from qualifying Fifty-three minutes gone, Ronaldo paced plaudits. time, the then Naft Tehran as the winner of our group. And forward, side-footed to the goalkeeper’s left For Beiranvand, then 25, it marked the high custodian was getting closer [despite going out] we were so but was left head in hands a split second later. point of a long journey that had seen him move to the Number 1 jersey and his pleased when we saw Iranians Alireza Beiranvand had guessed correctly, to the Iranian capital at an early age as he set chance finally arrived during the were happy and satisfied with parried the ball out and then quickly smothered penalty. I also thought of my tough background out to achieve his dreams. joint 2018 FIFA World Cup-AFC our performance.” it. and how much it would mean to me to save one “I have lived a hard life and have had some Asian Cup UAE 2019 qualifying The strong showing in In an instance, the Persepolis custodian, of his penalties. very difficult moments; nobody knew me when campaign in late 2015. Russia saw a number of Iran’s who was already enjoying an excellent “I had studied how he took them and had I left home and came to Tehran,” explains A 6-0 victory on your debut home-based stars be snapped tournament, was being talked about around made my decision to dive left. After I saved the Beiranvand. may sound like a dream up by clubs in Europe and the globe as his save from arguably the finest penalty, I felt the weight of pressure come off “I used to have trials at different clubs to start, although Beiranvand Qatar, while Beiranvand was player on the planet had allowed his country to my shoulders and felt like I could have fallen try and prove that I was good enough to offer was dismissed in the final 20 heavily linked with a move dream for just a little bit longer. asleep. I was able to embrace the sweetest a professional contract. But I also needed minutes. Queiroz did not lose away from Persepolis. “Let me tell you a funny story,” begins moment of my life.” somewhere to sleep at nights, so because of faith, though, and it was not long With the Tehran side in the

AFC QUARTERLY 45 INTERVIEW: Alireza Beiranvand

AFC Champions League quarter-finals and their maiden AFC Champions League final defeat in Japan to Kashima Antlers left them a All 2018 AFC expatriate community based in the country, other end. the AFC Asian Cup six months away, the was confirmed. For the second time in a matter mountain to climb in Tehran. Champions League with up to half a million Iranians said to be With Iran going into the continental goalkeeper opted to stay put. of months, Beiranvand had denied one of As ever, Azadi Stadium was packed to the living in the UAE. competition among the favourites, rather than And he was rewarded for his loyalty as the finest players of a generation and further rafters for the return meeting, but this time of the significance of the drought. “Of course, our fans there can help us; as underdogs as in Russia, the forwards will Persepolis came from behind to oust Qatar’s enhanced his growing reputation. there would be no happy ending as a scoreless “After playing in the World Cup, now the there was also big support for us in Russia as be looking to show exactly what they can do. Al Duhail, who had previously won all nine of “After the World Cup we lost four or five draw ensued and Iran’s wait for the continent’s burden of the Asian Cup falls on our shoulders, in every match we had the advantage of 30- “We have great strikers in our team such their games in the competition, in the quarter- good players and our team was still serving a biggest club prize continued. so we are looking ahead to that and preparing 40,000 fans in the stadium,” he recalls. as Mehdi Taremi and Karim Ansarifard, while finals. transfer ban,” says Beiranvand. Less than two months after the AFC well for it,” he notes. “There is a big community of Iranians in the I also think Sardar Azmoun can be among the Branko Ivankovic’s side faced another “I had won the domestic championship for Champions League final, though, comes the “We are competing with strong teams UAE and it’s also very close to Iran. Most of top three forwards in the tournament,” says Qatari team, Al Sadd, in the last four and the past two years and I thought I owed it to AFC Asian Cup, a tournament Iran will enter as such as Korea Republic, Japan, Australia, our team have experienced either playing for Beiranvand. claimed a 1-0 victory in the first leg in . Persepolis to stay – I didn’t really want to leave many people’s favourites. Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia and China, but we Emirati clubs or against them in the ACL, so “He is very good at reading what defenders The return meeting at a packed Azadi Stadium Eliminated by neighbours Iraq in the quarter- are going to the Asian Cup to bring the title we’re also very familiar with the stadiums.” are going to do and is quick to react on the proved to be a night to remember. “I’d say half of my finals in 2015, Queiroz’s side have enjoyed back to Iran. We are confident we can do it Ultimately, though, success or failure will pitch” Al Sadd broke the deadlock early on dreams and wishes have steady progress in the ensuing years and, on after 42 years.” come down to a squad that is full of talent and While Beiranvand’s immediate thoughts are through the tournament’s top scorer Baghdad already come true, the back of their impressive FIFA World Cup If Beiranvand’s list of potential title on the AFC Asian Cup, the months ahead may Bounedjah to mean another away goal would but my background is showing, will be expected to challenge for the contenders is anything to go by, the AFC “We are going to the also see speculation around his club future leave the hosts in all sorts of problems. always the motivation title. Asian Cup UAE 2019 will be as open as the Asian Cup to bring the start to surface again. Siamac Nemati levelled shortly after the that drives me forward The Central Asian country’s recent record in tournament has ever been, with six formers title back to Iran. We are And he is honest enough to admit that, interval but the game remained on a knife the tournament does not read well, however, as winners in contention. confident we can do it while his heart is with Persepolis, there may edge and, as the match drew towards its to progress more and they have been eliminated at the quarter-final The new-look competition will also feature be a time in his career when, if the right close, Persepolis knew an Al Sadd goal would more.” stage in the past three editions and last reached three debutants and a record number of after 42 years.” opportunity arises, he will think about moving see them advance to the final. the final in 1976 when they won the third of participating teams as 23 nations will join hosts overseas. With three minutes remaining, Jung Woo- them in a difficult situation. three successive titles. UAE early next year. is enjoying the benefit of Queiroz’s near eight- “For now, I am concentrating on the Asian young floated a ball into the box that was met “My concentration was only on Persepolis For many it remains a mystery as to why a Iran have been drawn in Group D alongside year tenure. Cup, and I would really like to be the best by the unmarked Hernandez, whose and I wanted to become an ACL champion with continental giant is now in its fifth decade since Iraq, who they will look to gain revenge on for The defensive record in FIFA World Cup goalkeeper at the tournament,” he adds. goalbound header was tipped over by a world- them.” last being crowned champions, particularly the 2015 defeat, an ever-improving Vietnam qualifying, and subsequent compact displays “After that, I will have the time to think about class save from Beiranvand. Aiming to become the first Iranian side to when they have boasted some of Asia’s finest and newcomers Yemen. at the tournament, sees Team Melli righty any offers, but like I have always said, if I Azadi Stadium breathed a collective sigh lift the AFC Champions League, Persepolis’ talents – , and Ali As with many sides in the Emirates, Team commended for their defending, but there leave Iran one day, I would want it to be for a of relief and soon after Persepolis’ place in campaign ended in heartbreak as a 2-0 first-leg Karimi to name a few. Beiranvand is fully aware Melli will hope to benefit from a sizable remains no shortage of attacking quality at the big club in Europe.”

AFC QUARTERLY 47 INTERVIEW: Bashar Resan

HERE TO COMPETE

AFTER IRAQ FAMOUSLY WON THE AFC ASIAN CUP IN 2007, YOUNG MIDFIELDER BASHAR RESAN IS PART OF THE NEW GENERATION OF IRAQI FOOTBALLERS LOOKING TO REPLICATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THOSE FROM OVER A DECADE AGO.

By: Wael Jabir Photos: Lagardère Sports/Getty Images

he Iraqi crowd at had a training session scheduled, but the Iraq v Iran match ran into extra-time erupted at the sight of then penalties. So, the training had to be ’s spot-kick delayed by an hour. cannoning off the upright “After the game, there were wild after the previous 12 celebrations in the dressing room, it was penalties had been as if we had won a trophy. It was an scored by both Iraq and unforgettable match for all Iraqis. the Islamic Republic of Iran. “It is always a special occasion when Amiri had come on as a substitute, Iraq and Iran clash, be it in World Cup andT his miss from 12 yards paved the qualifiers, the AFC Asian Cup, or any way for defender Salam Shaker to send competition. The 2015 AFC Asian Cup Iraq into the 2015 AFC Asian Cup semi- showed how big this game is.” finals at the expense of their neighbours. Fast forward two years from that Over 8,000 miles away from classic encounter to October 17, 2017. Canberra, 19-year-old Bashar Resan Both Resan and Amiri sat on the grass, and his club teammates echoed the head between hands as a 2-2 draw in joys of their countrymen in Australia, the second leg of the AFC Champions celebrating a famous victory over their League semi-finals saw Persepolis exit arch rivals. at the hands of Al Hilal after reaching the “I was at Air Force Club at the time,” last four for the first time. says Resan. “We were in a training Resan had made the move from Air camp in , in the north of Iraq. We Force Club to Iran’s most successful

AFC QUARTERLY 49 INTERVIEW: Bashar Resan

side, Persepolis, in July 2017, playing a soon snapped by Turkish side Trabzonspor. numbers,” says Resan. “Iraq always want so much to strive to become an Iraq national Top Left 2016 Bottom Left 2018 AFC U23 the game unaware of the situation. AFC Cup Championship bit-part role as an impact substitute as the Persepolis had lost a key man, but Resan to compete for top honours, so we are team player.” The message did come through at half- Tehran-based club reached the semi-finals stepped up to become a central piece in the ready for Iran and for the AFC Asian Cup While Resan never got the opportunity Above Left 2018 Left 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers time, and a tearful Resan was withdrawn of Asia’s top club competition. jigsaw for coach Branko Ivankovic. as a whole.” to take to the field for Iraq with his 2007 AFC Champions early in the second half. He flew straight League Above Friendly versus Qatar Moving east across the border was just Tehran’s Red Army repeated their It is now more than a decade on from heroes Akram and Jassim, he did line up with back home, missing the subsequent 1-1 one of the highlights of an eventful three- continental heroics, going one step further Iraq’s historic AFC Asian Cup title-winning Mahmoud in his debut for the senior national draw with Saudi Arabia a few days later. year period for the Iraqi international. In by defeating Qatar’s Al Sadd to reach the campaign in 2007 and the “Golden side against Peru in a friendly in September matches, he and the coaching staff got Resan demonstrated tremendous mental 2016, he helped Iraq’s U-23s win bronze at AFC Champions League final for the first Generation” have all either retired or 2014. to understand the players and the Iraqi strength as he took to the field less than the AFC U23 Championship in Qatar and time in their history, before losing 2-0 to are winding down their careers, but the “It was a fantastic moment to play with football culture, so now it is up to us, the two weeks later, helping Persepolis secure qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games. Japan’s Kashima Antlers over two legs. memory still burns brightly for Resan. Younis Mahmoud. Having watched him on TV players, to show what Iraqi football is all a place in the AFC Champions League final The midfielder missed out on playing At the beginning of 2019, Resan and Indeed, it is his first memory of watching and then to play alongside him was surreal,” about.” following the 2-1 aggregate victory over Al at the Olympics, but his year went from Amiri’s paths will cross again as they go the national team. recalls Resan. Iraq’s preparations for the AFC Asian Sadd. There were mixed emotions for him good to better as he scored in the Iraqi from teammates to opponents when the “I remember the tournament and that “Younis told me he liked me as a footballer Cup saw them face fellow participants at the final whistle as he broke down in FA Cup final to help Air Force Club defeat Lions of Mesopotamia face Team Melli in team very well,” he says. “I liked Nashat because I was a skillful player. His motivation such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and tears, dedicating the win to his late mother. Baghdad rivals Al Zawraa Club 2-0 and lift Group D at Dubai’s Al Maktoum Stadium. Akram a lot. The midfielder had very good pushed me to try my best and he gave me Palestine, but their biggest test came One of Iraq’s top talents, Resan is the trophy. A few months later, Resan and “The game in 2015 was a fiercely vision, passes and skill. lots of good advice on how to improve my against Argentina back in October, when hopeful of a bright 2019 for the nation’s his teammates added more silverware to contested affair, and this time around it will “Also Karrar Jassim, his style is similar game on the football field.” they were beaten 4-0 by the Albiceleste. football team, and if they are to be their cabinets. Air Force Club became the be hotly anticipated too,” notes Resan. “Not to my style. His movement, passing and Resan has gone on to cement his place For Resan, it was a match he could successful, a winning mentality and first Iraqi team to win the AFC Cup, in 2016, just for supporters of the two teams, but for skill is how I modelled my game. These two as part of the new generation, with the 2007 never forget. The midfielder was by far ambition are the two key words according defeating JSW Bengaluru of India in the Asian football fans in general. were among my favourites. success not far from their minds as the his side’s best performer against superior to the midfielder. final. “For me, it will be an extra special game. “For the final itself, I was at home with benchmark to be compared against. opposition, but while he strutted his stuff “If we go into the tournament with the The side would go on to retain their title Most of the Iran players are my friends, my family watching the game. I remember Former United Arab Emirates head coach on the turf at Prince Faisal bin Fahd mindset we are just there to play, then we in 2017 and 2018, but halfway through current or former Persepolis teammates or the moment Younis Mahmoud headed Srecko Katanec has been brought in to take Stadium in , the then 21-year-old won’t achieve anything,” he insists. “We the 2017 campaign, Resan had swapped opponents in the league.” home the winning goal on 73 minutes. I the rebuilding process into the next phase. was not aware tragedy had struck the have to go there to challenge for the title, Baghdad for Tehran, where he would Iran might be well above Iraq in the FIFA celebrated with my neighbours and my The Slovenian has assembled a squad of family. regardless of any differences. become teammates with Amiri, the man he rankings, but that will not stop the 2007 friends all day until well past midnight. young players, the vast majority of whom ply Hours ahead of the game, news had “Our target is to reach the semi-finals, so joyously watched miss that spot-kick in Asian champions from taking on their rivals “That moment when I saw the players their trade abroad, either in the Gulf or at emerged that Resan’s mother had passed then the final. This will be on all the players’ 2015. with the same intensity that earned them lifting the trophy and becoming champions. European clubs. away. But in an effort to keep the players minds. Our ambition should always be to A memorable FIFA World Cup victory in Australia four years ago. It moved me so much, I became very “We have a very good coach in Katanec,” focused, a ban on using phones was in go far in the tournament, to show that Iraqi performance in mid-2018 meant Amiri was “We never play just to make up the emotional at those scenes. It pushed me says the midfielder. “Through the friendly place, meaning Iraq’s number 13 went into football is doing great.”

AFC QUARTERLY 51 INTERVIEW: MILOS DEGENEK EYES ON THE PRIZE

HAVING MADE A SUCCESSFUL DEBUT IN THE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE THIS SEASON, AUSTRALIA DEFENDER MILOS DEGENEK IS FOCUSED ON THE NEXT TWO TARGETS IN HIS CAREER: TO APPEAR AT AND WIN THE AFC ASIAN CUP WITH THE SOCCEROOS.

By: Daniel Pordes • Photo: Getty Images

t’s fair to say that the time is truly now Manchester United centre-back partner into the tournament hoping to win a second for Milos Degenek. Since joining Red Rio Ferdinand, having a chance to test but, indeed, believing Star Belgarde in the summer, the young himself against a similar high calibre of that they will. Serbia-born Australian has enjoyed a opponent has been key in his evolution as “I expect Australia to go into the Asian Cup whirlwind few months that looks set to a footballer. full of confidence,” says the man who grew up reach its pinnacle at AFC Asian Cup Having started out as a midfielder – he playing football at the renowned Westfields UAE 2019. counts Zinedine Zidane as one of his Sports High School, located in a western Up until January 2017, Degenek’s boyhood heroes – Degenek is now firmly suburb of Sydney. career had been a mixed affair with moderate settled in his centre-back position, and “I expect us to go into the tournament to success in Germany intermingled with injury- looks now to more defensively-inclined dominate and win games, and to have a good Iwrecked spells. But 18 months of consistent stars such as Real Madrid captain Sergio tournament. football at Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan Ramos as role models. “I think fans should be excited about then followed, and 2018 brought with it FIFA “Playing against top opposition can only Australia being there because we’re going to World Cup and UEFA Champions League help you as a player,” Degenek notes. play bright, attacking football and we’re going experience. “In our group, we had two of the top to be direct, offensive-minded, and be the While he did not see pitch time at Russia three teams in Europe which is good team to beat. 2018, despite being in Bert van Marwijk’s because you see where they’re at and how “We aim to be the most entertaining team squad, Degenek has been an ever-present they play, which can then be implemented there.” for Red Star since his move from Yokohama into your own training. With the high-profile retirements of the and successfully helped the Serbian club “I’ve been trying to pay attention to likes of and Tim Cahill a lot has qualify for Europe’s highest level of club things like that and most of all it’s just a changed since Australia’s memorable 2015 competition for the first time since the 1991- good challenge to take on the world’s best AFC Asian Cup campaign, including the man 1992 European Cup. players.” in the dugout. Red Star, the 1992 European champions, And now, having faced heavyweights Ange Postecoglou, the 2015 AFC Coach were landed in a tough group with Liverpool, from Italy, France and England, his eyes of the Year, was replaced briefly at the Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain but Degenek are firmly fixed on a new challenge: taking Socceroos helm by Dutchman van Marwijk seized the opportunity with both hands. on the best of Asia and helping reigning for the 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign, “The UEFA Champions League is a dream AFC Asian Cup champions Australia but Graham Arnold is the current long-term come true. Club-wise it is among the pinnacle successfully defend their continental title. incumbent. of a player’s career and it is something I have “The last AFC Asian Cup was in And it’s an appointment that Degenek always dreamed about,” says Degenek, who Australia on home soil and, even though believes can help the continued progression lined-up in the Red Star side that famously I wasn’t part of the set-up then, it was an of both his and Australia’s football defeated English Premier League giants unforgettable experience; written down in development. Liverpool 2-0 in the Serbian capital on history and always to be remembered in “I am 100 percent there for the Socceroos November 6. Australian football,” says Degenek, whose and always will be. I believe in what “We played well against Liverpool and family moved from war-torn Belgrade Graham Arnold is doing,” he says. managed to shut them out. [Milan] Pavkov to Australia just in time for the Sydney “We’re not taking any backward steps and scored two beautiful goals, but all the boys Olympics in 2000. we expect to have a very good four-year played well. I think Liverpool underestimated “I’ve never participated in it before, cycle towards the next World Cup, a very us and consequently paid for that mistake. hopefully this will be my first time. The aim successful one. “It’s not easy for teams to come to would be to win it, of course. To see us go “We expect to dominate countries here in Belgrade and play. The atmosphere here all the way in my first tournament would be Asia and the world. is unreal. You don’t get anything like it unbelievable, I know everyone in the team “It’s a dream of mine to win a trophy with anywhere else in the world.” would love to get back-to-back titles.” my country and I think we have a good For the man who grew up idolising As holders, Degenek believes that chance – I’d love to go out there and win this countryman Nemanja Vidic and his Graham Arnold’s side should not only go tournament.”

AFC QUARTERLY 53 INTERVIEW: PHIL YOUNGHUSBAND UP FOR THE CHALLENGE

HAVING SCORED HIS 50TH INTERNATIONAL GOAL TO SEAL THE PHILIPPINES’ DEBUT APPEARANCE AT AN AFC ASIAN CUP TOURNAMENT, AZKALS CAPTAIN PHIL YOUNGHUSBAND IS READY TO STEP UP ONTO THE BIG STAGE AT UAE 2019, WITH AMBITIONS OF MAKING MORE CONTINENTAL HISTORY FOR FILIPINO FOOTBALL.

By: Daniel Pordes • Photo: Getty Images

hen Phil scores, as long as we qualify for the Asian playing against the best teams in the world, the Younghusband Cup. best teams in Asia, so we’re very excited and stepped up to “The most important thing that day was looking forward to the challenge.” the penalty spot qualifying, the feeling of satisfaction of that A big boost for the Philippines national at Manila’s Rizal goal absolutely comes second to that feeling team’s debut AFC Asian Cup campaign Memorial Stadium, of qualifying. will be the support of their overseas-based he knew his nation “I’ve been through a lot, been with the compatriots, with over 670,000 Filipinos alone was on the brink of national team for over 12 years now and so living in the United Arab Emirates, of which history and – finally – ending the nightmare of I’ve gone through a lot of highs and a lot of some 450,000 live in Dubai. four years ago. lows. “We’re very aware of the large Filipino WFor on May 30, 2014, the Philippines had “But for all those lows the feeling we felt community in the UAE. In general, there’s a stepped out in the Maldivian capital of Male once we knew we qualified against Tajikistan huge number of our countrymen in the Middle in the final of the now defunct AFC Challenge meant they were worth it because it means East including many overseas workers,” says Cup with a maiden place in the AFC Asian Cup so much and is a great opportunity to Younghusband. on the line for the winners. improve and to progress.” “I remember playing one particular match But, despite their efforts, it was to be Ashraf Younghusband sees the chance to play in Kuwait some years ago, we had 75 percent Numan’s goal just before the hour mark that at their first AFC Asian Cup as not only of the supporters in a sold-out 42,000-seater meant it was Palestine, not the Azkals, who a proud achievement for himself and his stadium. That was an amazing feeling, it was would win the qualifying tournament and teammates but an important milestone in the like a home game. thereby make their continental debut at AFC development of football in the archipelago. “So hopefully we can garner all the support Asian Cup Australia 2015. “When I first joined the national team, from this expatriate community in the Middle It was a devastating setback for I didn’t really understand the steps of East and make all our games like home Younghusband and his teammates. progression, the ladder, and for me it was games. If we want to be successful, we’ll need At the Rizal, this time, there would be always about getting better and better,” says as much support as possible, and we know no denying the Philippines. Their skipper Younghusband. Filipinos are so welcoming and supportive of emphatically slammed home the stoppage- “With Filipinos, the sky is the limit for the team.” time spot-kick to ensure a 2-1 win over football and with the right support we can go When it comes to his specific ambitions for Tajikistan and a place at AFC Asian Cup UAE far. But to actually pinpoint where we would the tournament itself, Younghusband is positive 2019, sending the partisan TV commentators be at this point, I couldn’t have told you. but realistic. into shrill screams of joy and the home crowd “Especially with the way Asian football Drawn in a tough Group C alongside Korea into roars of ecstasy. has been growing too, with Asian teams Republic, China PR and Kyrgyz Republic, the “It meant a lot to me personally, to doing well at the FIFA World Cup, and the Philippines are sure to face a tough challenge everyone involved in Filipino football,” reflects improvements in the domestic leagues in in the UAE. Younghusband on his special night at the end Asia. “We said to ourselves as soon as we of March last year. “When I started, Filipino football and Asian qualified, that we didn’t just want to take part, “We had the disappointment at the 2014 football as a whole was still developing, we wanted to compete,” adds Younghusband. AFC Challenge Cup of not qualifying for the so for us to be in the biggest Asian Cup “For me personally, I just want to play – I 2015 AFC Asian Cup in Australia, and I think competition, in the biggest sport in the world, hope the coach will pick me! – and secondly because of that disappointment, qualifying for it truly is an amazing thought when you put it I hope for the team that we can qualify for the UAE 2019 feels that much more sweeter and in perspective. knockout stage. that more amazing. “We’re looking forward to playing against “I don’t think it’s unrealistic that we could be “With regards the goal itself, I was just the top-quality teams, the World Cup sides, among the top four third best placed teams in thankful for my teammates because they won like Korea Republic who are in our group. the group stage. the penalty and gave me the opportunity to “We know that improving and progressing “If we play well, everything goes right, and score my 50th goal but the only thing running as a football nation can only be done by we have a little bit of luck then it is possible. through my mind was: I don’t care whoever getting that exposure and experience of That’s a realistic goal for me.”

AFC QUARTERLY 55 INTERVIEW: THITIPAN PUANGCHAN FIELD OF DREAMS

THAILAND RETURN TO THE AFC ASIAN CUP FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2007, AND MIDFIELDER THITIPAN PUANGCHAN IS READY TO SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHINE ON ASIA’S BIGGEST STAGE WHEN THEIR UAE 2019 CAMPAIGN KICKS OFF ON JANUARY 6.

By: Paul Murphy • Photo: Lagardère Sports

hailand midfielder Thitipan “All of our opponents will be strong as performance in the AFC Asian Cup, the Puangchan is dreaming you have to be at a certain level to play on national side were generally struggling. of a 2019 AFC Asian Cup this stage but our head coach will prepare The Thai Premier League’s rebranding and final against Japan as the us well.” restructuring to include provincial teams was War Elephants prepare for While the dream final against Japan is in its infancy and the dominant team in Thai their first participation at the likely to remain just a dream, Thitipan feels football, Buriram United, did not even exist. tournament since co-hosting the War Elephants have enough quality to As Thailand approach this year’s AFC it in 2007. spring a surprise and go as far as the last Asian Cup, they can look back on five While an appearance in the final would be four. years of steady progress, which began with beyond the expectations of even the most “It’s going to be really tough but we have their triumph at the AFF (ASEAN Football Toptimistic of Thai fans, Thitipan would love to a good team spirit and teamwork,” he said. Federation) Championship in 2014 – their first go up against the Asian team that he admires “We have also had time to prepare. It will Southeast Asian title in 12 years. most. not be easy but we hope we can go as far They also reached the final stage of “I would like to play against any of the big as the quarter- or semi-finals.” qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, teams in the final but if I have to choose one, One player who won’t be standing in finishing ahead of Iraq in the first qualifying it would be Japan,” said Thitipan. “They are their way is 2016 AFC Player of the Year stage. a very good team and I enjoy watching them . The UAE playmaker The backbone of this side features on TV so I would really like the experience of has been ruled out of the tournament with four players who were plying their trade playing against them.” a knee injury and Thitipan admits it is abroad in 2018. Playmaker Chanathip In reality, a place in the last 16 would be something of a relief not to be up against Songkrasin, striker Teerasil Dangda, and considered a satisfactory performance from the man who tormented the Thais in a 2018 wing-back Theerathon Bumnathan all play a Thailand side that was unlucky to miss out FIFA World Cup qualifier in Abu Dhabi two in the J.League, while goalkeeper Kawin on progressing from the group stage 12 years years ago. Thamsatchanan is with Belgium’s OH Leuven. ago. “You have to admit that it’s lucky for When the AFC Asian Cup comes around A 1-1 draw with eventual champions Iraq Thailand that we don’t have to play against again in four years’ time, Teerasil – who made was followed by a 2-0 victory over Oman, a player of his quality,” said Thitipan. “I a brief substitute appearance at the age of leaving the War Elephants needing just a have played against him before and his 19 in 2007 – will be 34, while Theerathon and point against Australia in the final match. performance was excellent so I know Kawin will be 33. Chanathip will be younger at Unfortunately, three goals in the final exactly how dangerous he can be. He 29 but it seems the time has to be now for this 10 minutes killed off the home side as the caused us a lot of problems.” group of players to make a significant impact Socceroos won 4-0 to go through on the Another thing in Thailand’s favour is for their country on a big stage. head-to-head record. the climate as the UAE winter should see But Thitipan was not going to get This year, the Thais do not have home cooler temperatures than tropical sentimental when asked about how this could advantage but they have what appears a but not to the extent that significant be the final opportunity for the likes of Teerasil more favourable draw, going up against hosts acclimatisation is a necessary part of the and Theerathon. United Arab Emirates, India and Bahrain. preparations. “It’s a chance for everyone and it could be Twelve years has been a long wait, with “It’s definitely an advantage that the everyone’s last chance,” said Thitipan. “Every most of a generation of Thai players missing weather in the UAE is quite similar to time you play for your country, you give 100 out. This makes Thitipan determined to make Thailand,” said Thitipan. “We don’t have to percent. the most of this opportunity. take time to adapt to the climate and we “It’s always important, so it doesn’t really “Of course, it’s hugely important for don’t have to make any significant changes matter if it’s the last chance or not. Every Thailand,” he acknowledged. “This is Asia’s to our playing style.” player has to do their best regardless.” biggest football competition. I am really While there may be similarities in the Thitipan and his teammates will certainly looking forward to playing in it and want weather, Thai football is in a very different have to hit the ground running when they face to take Thailand as far as possible in the place compared to where it was in 2007. India in what could be a pivotal opening match tournament. Back then, despite the respectable on January 6 in Abu Dhabi.

AFC QUARTERLY 57 INTERVIEW: Anton Zemlianukhin FLYING HIGH

ANTON ZEMLIANUKHIN HAS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF KYRGYZ REPUBLIC’S RECENT RISE THAT HAS SEEN THE WHITE FALCONS QUALIFY FOR THEIR FIRST AFC ASIAN CUP. WITH THE COMPETITION NOW UPON US, THE FORWARD IS ALREADY EYEING THE KNOCKOUT ROUNDS.

By: Peter Alsop • Photo: Football Federation of the Kyrgyz Republic

ust over 1,000 spectators were in their first 15 competitive matches under world class teams, which is very cool and will in attendance on a chilly night then coach Meklis Koshaliyev, they won just be a priceless experience for us.” at Incheon Football Stadium in once and lost 11. For the first time in the tournament’s Korea Republic on March 22, In the ensuing 10 years, development history, there will be four representatives from 2018, when another Republic was slow, with their high point arriving in Central Asia, with the Islamic Republic of – Kyrgyz – recorded the most 2006 when they reached the semi-finals of Iran, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan joining the important result in their 28- the AFC Challenge Cup in Bangladesh. Kyrgyz. year history as a competitive A year later, Zemlianukhin made his “Football is booming throughout the football team. debut and scored his first goal in a 1-1 draw continent and Central Asia is no exception as The crunch clash against Myanmar in with Lebanon in the 2009 Nehru Cup, but we are developing at both national team and theJ AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 qualifying between 2011 and 2014 the forward was club level,” explained Zemlianukhin. campaign was played on neutral ground and, not part of the national team set-up and the “Iran were at the World Cup in Russia, after the two sides had drawn 2-2 earlier Central Asians’ progress stalled. Uzbekistan reached the quarter-finals of the in the campaign, victory would ensure the Then, in 2015, things started to click 2015 Asian Cup and, in the face of strong Kyrgyz a place in the competition while defeat for both Zemlianukhin and his country. competition, we have given everything to would leave their destiny out of their hands. Recalled to the national team by Russian become competitive too.” Like so often had been the case in recent coach Aleksandr Krestinin, the Kant native Back in May, the draw for the eagerly years, Anton Zemlianukhin would play a key scored four goals as the Kryzgy won four awaited tournament paired Kyrgyz Republic in role, with the forward netting the second and and drew two of their eight games in the an intriguing group alongside Korea Republic, third goals in a resounding 5-1 victory that joint FIFA World Cup Russia 2018-AFC China and fellow debutants the Philippines. saw his nation qualify for their maiden AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 qualifiers, including “Korea have won the Asian Cup, while Asian Cup. an impressive 1-0 victory over Jordan in China and the Philippines have world- With all pressure off, Zemlianukhin scored which he netted the only goal. renowned coaches in Marcello Lippi and another in Bishkek’s Dolen Omurzakov The White Falcons finished five points Sven-Goran Eriksson,” noted the forward. Stadium to round off their campaign with behind reigning AFC Asian Cup holders “Playing against these teams will be an a 2-1 win over India as the Central Asians Australia in their group, just two adrift invaluable experience. It will be the first time ended level on points with the Indians amid of Jordan and, perhaps most tellingly in in my life to be part of such a prestigious joyous scenes in the Kyrgyz capital. terms of their progression, nine ahead of tournament and the whole team want to show “The whole country was closely following fellow Central Asians Tajikistan to advance our rivals what we can do when we play our qualifying group and the game against directly to the third round of qualifiers for the them.” Myanmar was decisive,” said 30-year-old continental tournament. While Kyrgyz Republic will enter the Zemlianukhin, who has played his club Zemlianukhin then scored six goals in tournament as one of the underdogs, the new football in Kazakhstan, Turkey, Serbia and the last four games of next phase as the format will give them hope that reaching the Thailand, as well as his homeland, in a Kyrgyz booked their ticket to the United knockout rounds is a realistic target. nomadic career. Arab Emirates, where they will be part of a With 24 nations now competing, for the first “After the final whistle we rushed to our newly expanded 24-team tournament. His time ever a Round of 16 has been introduced few supporters who made the trip to Korea tally of 12 for the Central Asians means he to mean four of the six third-placed teams will Republic to share the joy of the victory. There is currently the nation’s all-time top scorer. advance from the group stage. were emotions which I can’t really describe – “Football is a team game and the goals “I think our chances of going to the Round we were all just over the moon,” admitted the I scored were a result of teamwork. Every of 16 are quite real ... we are targeting second country’s all-time leading goalscorer. player in the team was under huge pressure place in our group,” admitted Zemlianukhin. “Only after returning home to Kyrgyz from the fans to deliver to the country,” “Third place will put us in the position where Republic did it sink in that we’d achieved such noted the forward. we’re depending on results in other groups to a historic result by qualifying for the Asian “It’s a nice feeling to be the main qualify and we won’t be in full control of the Cup.” goalscorer, but it’s not my biggest situation.” Back when Kyrgyz Republic played their achievement. More importantly is I play well It may have taken more than 20 years for first ever international match, on August 23, and the team get good results. the White Falcons to be able to challenge on 1992, Zemlianukhin was just three years old. “Our team is now going to take part in a continental level, but if the last three years The 3-0 defeat to neighbours Uzbekistan this prestigious tournament for the first time are anything to go by then they will give a in Tashkent was a sign of things to come as, in our history. We are going to play against good account of themselves in the UAE.

AFC QUARTERLY 59 REVIEW: AFC Champions LEAGUE

ashima Antlers ensured “We played Real Madrid in the final of the the second leg.” Japan celebrated back- FIFA Club World Cup two years ago but for And in the return fixture in front of a record Kashima Antlers to-back Asian club me, tonight is more satisfying as we won the crowd for an AFC Champions League final at championships after the title. Azadi Stadium, it was another closely fought J.League club edged out the “The name of Kashima Antlers will now battle between the sides. Kashima were Crowned Asian Kings Islamic Republic of Iran’s echo throughout Asia.” indebted to the stalwart work of their backline Persepolis 2-0 on aggregate Kashima were particularly impressive and veteran goalkeeper Kwoun Sun-tae, who in the two-legged final of the AFC Champions at home in the knockout stage of the had previously won two continental titles with League.K tournament, disposing of China’s Shanghai former club Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. Goals from Brazilian pair Leo Silva and SIPG and Tianjin Quanjian as well as two- Tournament MVP Yuma Suzuki worked Serginho in November 3’s first leg at Kashima time Asian Club Championship winners tirelessly upfront for the visitors, while Soccer Stadium gave Go Oiwa’s Kashima a from Korea midfielder Misao also put in an impressive crucial lead to take to the return meeting in Republic on route to the final, and so shift as the Persepolis attack was stifled and Tehran a week later. expectations were high ahead of the first leg often forced to go to the long-ball option in And it proved enough as 2017 semi- in Japan. their attempt to find a breakthrough. finalists Persepolis failed to find a And the home crowd were not disappointed And with the Iranian side ultimately unable breakthrough in front of 100,000 supporters as midfielder Leo Silva found the target just to find a way past Kwoun and company, at Azadi Stadium, with Kashima holding on to before the hour mark. The Brazilian played Kashima’s first leg goals would prove the lift their maiden AFC Champions League title a neat one-two with on the edge difference as Persepolis missed out on and replicating the feats of last year’s winners of the Persepolis penalty area and cut inside becoming Iran’s first AFC Champions League Urawa Red Diamonds. before curling a low left-footed shot into the winners. “I am so proud that we have won the AFC corner from 18 yards. “I am sorry we couldn’t be Asian champions Champions League title for the first time,” The goal broke the stalemate of an even but this was our first major Asian final and said Kashima coach Oiwa following the contest between the two sides and things we came very close,” said Persepolis coach second leg. got even better for the hosts when Serginho Branko Ivankovic following the second leg. doubled Kashima’s advantage. The ball broke “The players and fans showed how to Kento Misao 20 yards out and he played beautiful and fair football is in Iran and I a deft pass into the path of Serginho on the applaud them. I would also like to thank the right and the Brazilian placed his shot into the staff and club for helping raise us to this level. far corner from the edge of the six-yard box. “I am so proud of my players, they tried so “We were too defensive in the first half and hard and put all their energy into the match. this allowed Persepolis to come at us. We They are winners. changed that in the second half,” said Oiwa “We may have lost but this is an incentive following the first leg. to do better in the future. We now have the “We pushed forward more, used our flanks experience of having played at this level and more freely which stretched their defence. we will improve.” This allowed us to go through the middle and Al Sadd’s , meanwhile, create chances and score. was the AFC Champions League top “This was just the first half and we need goalscorer after netting 13 goals for the semi- to focus on the second leg and our J.League finalists from Qatar, ahead of Suwon’s Dejan challenge as well. It was good to have won Damjanovic and Al Duhail’s Youssef El Arabi. but we must concentrate on getting ready for

SEMI-FINALS Kashima Suwon Samsung Antlers v Bluewings Persepolis v Al Sadd 6-5 2-1

Kashima Antlers win 6-5 on aggregate Persepolis win 2-1 on aggregate

03/10/18 24/10/18 02/10/18 23/10/18 Kashima Antlers 3 (Jang Ho-ik Suwon Samsung Bluewings 3 Al Sadd 0 Persepolis 1 ( 49) 21 OG, Serginho 84, 90+3) (Lim Sang-hyub 52, Jo Sung-jin 53, Persepolis 1 ( 86) Al Sadd 1 (Baghdad Bounedjah 17) Suwon Samsung Bluewings 2 Dejan Damjanovic 60) (Atsuto Uchida 2 OG, Dejan Dam- Kashima Antlers 3 (Shuto Yama- janovic 6) moto 25, 64, Serginho 82) Kashima Soccer Stadium, Kashima Suwon World Cup Stadium, Suwon , Doha Azadi Stadium, Tehran FINAL Kashima Antlers v Persepolis 2-0 Kashima Antlers win 2-0 on aggregate

03/11/18 10/11/18 Kashima Antlers 2 (Leo Silva 58, Serginho 70) Persepolis 0 Persepolis 0 Kashima Antlers 0

Kashima Soccer Stadium, Kashima Azadi Stadium, Tehran Attendance : 35,022 Attendance : 100,000

AFC QUARTERLY 61 REVIEW: AFC CUP

ir Force Club were crowned to aim higher.” Mohammed Kassid five minutes after the 2018 AFC Cup champions, The Iraqi side had shown impressive restart. Air Force Club lifting the trophy for a record resolve to reach the final unbeaten, Despite Altyn Asyr’s best efforts, it was third successive year after eliminating Lebanon’s Al Ahed and Jordan’s the home team who increased their lead a 2-0 win in late October’s Al Jazeera in the knockout rounds. in the 57th minute as Bayesh rose highest Make History final against Turkmenistan’s Altyn Asyr, meanwhile, had also gone at the near post to power in a header Altyn Asyr. without a loss on their march to the final for his side’s second goal of the evening At Basra Sports City, nearly 25,000 fans as they aimed to become the first team following Sameh Saeed’s cross from the Asaw the hosts’ captain from Central Asia to win the AFC Cup since corner kick. open the scoring in the 22nd minute before Uzbekistan’s Nasaf Qarshi in 2011. The visitors were given a golden Ibrahim Bayesh headed home his side’s Four wins from six in the group stage chance to come back into the game in the second goal of the night just short of the was followed with victories over JSW 64th minute when Saad Natiq handled the hour mark to cement Air Force Club’s place Bengaluru of India and DPR Korea’s 4.25 ball inside the box, prompting the referee in history. SC in the knockout rounds as the side to award a penalty. Selim Nurmuradov “We went into the game with great desire made history in becoming the first team stepped up to take the spot-kick but to win the title, our coach watched Altyn from Turkmenistan in the competition blasted his effort well over as Air Force Asyr’s previous matches and had a detailed climax. Club’s grip on the trophy tightened. plan for us,” said Ahmed, who was named Air Force Club, though, had won the Annadurdyyev came within a whisker the tournament’s MVP. tournament two years running and were of scoring his ninth goal of the 2018 AFC “The goal I scored is the most important aiming to become three-time continental Cup in the 70th minute. The Altyn Asyr of my career because I scored in the final champions. talisman did well to control a long pass as the team captain and this helped us win The hosts came racing out of the from substitute Shorat Soyunov, but his the AFC Cup for the third time. blocks as Ahmed found space inside the left-footed strike on the half-volley struck “Winning the MVP is also something I will box and rounded goalkeeper Mamed the side netting. always cherish and will use it as motivation Orazmuhamedov, but the Altyn Asyr Late pressure from Altyn Asyr produced defence recovered, forcing the forward little in terms of scoring chances, as Air wide. Ahmed laid off the ball for Force Club remained resilient to secure whose effort was blocked in the fifth minute. a historic 2-0 win on home soil to lift their Ahmed had a golden chance to open third AFC Cup title in a row. the scoring in the 15th minute when he “I congratulate Air Force Club for this received Bayesh’s cross from the right achievement, the match was very difficult flank, but the Air Force Club captain’s shot for us as they were highly motivated,” said was collected by Orazmuhamedov. Altyn Asyr coach Yazguly Hojageldyyev. Ahmed was more clinical just seven “Although we lost, it was good minutes later though as a dominant Air experience for us. I am still very proud of Force Club went into the interval a goal up. my players and thank them for the great Altyn Asyr started the second half with effort they have shown in the AFC Cup. renewed impetus, threatening through “Losing to Air Force Club is no shame Altymyrat Annadurdyyev whose effort from as they are a big team but we will learn the edge of the box was tipped behind by and come back stronger.”

FINAL 27/10/18 Air Force Club v Altyn Asyr 2-0 (Hammadi Ahmed 22, Ibrahim Bayesh 57)

AFC QUARTERLY 63 REVIEW: AFC U-19 CHAMPIONSHIP Saudi Arabia Win AFC U-19 Championship Title

audi Arabia were crowned Korea Republic opened Group C with a Gelora Bung Karno Stadium hoping AFC U-19 Championship 1-1 draw against Australia, then successive Indonesia could upset Japan but, despite Indonesia 2018 winners 3-1 victories over Jordan and Vietnam meant a brave effort, the hosts were defeated after early goals from they progressed with few problems, while the 2-0. Turki Al Ammar and Khalid Socceroos claimed the runners-up spot. Jeon Se-jin scored the only goal of the Al Ghannam proved Hosts Indonesia raised expectations game as Korea Republic ousted Tajikistan enough to defeat 12-time following a 3-1 opening-day victory over to return to the last four. champions Korea Republic Chinese Taipei in Group A, while United Arab And Saudi Arabia proved too good for 2-1 in November’s final in Bogor, Indonesia. Emirates defeated Qatar 2-1. Australia as second-half goals from Firas Al Ammar opened the scoring in the The UAE eased past Chinese Taipei 8-1 in Al Buraikan and Saud Abdulhamid helped Ssecond minute at Pakansari Stadium before their second game and Qatar claimed a 6-5 claim a 3-1 win. Al Ghannam doubled their advantage victory over the Indonesians. Jeon scored a first-half brace in the midway through the first half. Qatar secured a 4-0 win over Chinese semi-final between Korea Republic and 22/10/18 Korea Republic pulled one back through Taipei to book their place in the quarter- Qatar, before the East Asians progressed Group A P W D L F A +/- Pts Australia 2 (Angus Thurgate 37, Gbenga Tai Folami Cho Young-wook’s penalty in the 64th finals and they were joined by the hosts, who to their 17th final following a 3-1 win. Qatar 3 2 0 1 11 7 4 6 76) Vietnam 1 (Le Van Nam 85) minute but were unable to find an equaliser edged past the UAE 1-0. Japan were then ousted in the semi- Indonesia 3 2 0 1 9 7 2 6 Jordan 1 (Omar Al Zebdieh 77) Korea Republic 3 as Saudi Arabia added to the titles they won In Group B, holders Japan began the finals as Al Ammar and Al Ghannam each UAE 3 2 0 1 10 3 7 6 (Cho Young-wook 3, Jeon Se-jin 79, Choi Jun 90) in 1986 and 1992. defence of their title with a 5-2 victory over scored in a 2-0 victory to ensure the Chinese Taipei 3 0 0 3 2 15 -13 0 25/10/18 Vietnam 1 (Le Xuan Tu 13) Korea Republic 3 (Cho The finalists, along with semi-finalists DPR Korea, before wins against Thailand Saudis’ march continued. 18/10/18 Young-wook 45 pen, 90+4 pen, Kim Hyun-woo 77) Qatar and Japan, all secured their passage and Iraq saw them return to the quarter- It was the same pair that proved the UAE 2 (Ahmad Fawzi 16, Ali Saleh 41) Qatar 1 Australia 1 (Oliver Puflett 10) Jordan 1 (Omar Al to the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland. finals. Thailand, meanwhile, finished second. heroes in the final with the 2-1 win ending (Abdulrasheed Umaru 36) Zebdieh 76) (Egy Maulana 50, Wiltan Sulaeman Saudi Arabia began their campaign with a The quarter-final between Qatar and Saudi Arabia’s 26-year wait for the trophy. Indonesia 3 70,89) Chinese Taipei 1 (Wang Chung Yu 53) Group D 2-1 victory over Malaysia in Group D, before Thailand finished 3-3 after 90 minutes, Al Ammar was voted the tournament’s 21/10/18 P W D L F A +/- Pts advancing as table-toppers following wins although the Qataris won 7-3 after extra-time MVP, while Qatar’s Umaru picked up the Chinese Taipei 1 (Wu Yen Shu 74) UAE 8 (Ahmad Saudi Arabia 3 3 0 0 6 2 4 9 over China and Tajikistan, with the latter with Abdulrasheed Umaru bagging a brace. Top Scorer accolade after netting seven Fawzi 10, Ali Saleh 20, 67, Majed Rashed 35, 75, Tajikistan 3 1 1 1 4 5 -1 4 joining the Saudis in the quarter-finals. More than 60,000 fans turned out at goals. Rashed Mubarak51, 59, Abdullah Al Naqbi 70) China 3 1 0 2 2 2 0 3 Qatar 6 ( 11, 51, Abdulrasheed Umaru 14, Malaysia 3 0 1 2 3 6 -3 1 41, 56, 24) Indonesia 5 (Luthfi Kamal 28, 65, 73, 81, Saddil Ramdani 69) 20/10/18 24/10/18 Saudi Arabia 2 (Turki Al Ammar 24, Salem Al Saleem Indonesia 1 (Witan Sulaeman 23) UAE 0 78) Malaysia 1 (Hadi Fayyadh 88) Qatar 4 (Khaled Mansour 57, Hashim Ali 61, 77, Tajikistan 1 (Sharafjo Solehov 77)China 0 Abdulrasheed Umaru 86 pen) Chinese Taipei 0 23/10/18 China 0 Saudi Arabia 1 (Abdulmohsen Al Qahtani 81) Group B Malaysia 2 (Hadi Fayyadh 11, Vahdat Hanonov OG P W D L F A +/- Pts 55) Tajikistan 2 (Ehson Panjshanbe 34 pen, Daler Japan 3 3 0 0 13 3 10 9 Yodgorov 45+1) Thailand 3 1 1 1 6 7 -1 4 26/10/18 DPR Korea 3 1 0 2 4 7 -3 3 Saudi Arabia 3 (Safi Al Zaqarta 65, 70, Faraj Al Iraq 3 0 1 2 3 9 -6 1 Ghashayan 73) Tajikistan 1 (Sheriddin Boboev 29) China 2 (Tao Qianglong 44, Xu Yue58) Malaysia 0 19/10/18 Iraq 3 (Moamel Abdulridha 37, Wakaa Ramadhan 42, Quarter-Finals Hasan Abdulkareem 66) Thailand 3 (Kritsada Kaman 26, Korrawit Tasa 87, Suphanat Mueanta 90+4) 28/10/18 Japan 5 (Koki Saito 8, Hiroki Ito 19, Takefusa Kubo Qatar 7 (Hashim Ali 13, Nasser Al Yazidi 21, Ahmed 65, Taisei Miyashiro 89, 90+3) DPR Korea Suhail 87, Abdulrasheed Umaru 99, 117, Khaled 2 (Kye Tam 36, Kang Kuk-chol 41 pen) Mansour 106, Yousef Aymen 120) Thailand 3 (Korrawit 22/10/18 Tasa 48, Sakunchai Saengthopho 61, Thirapak DPR Korea 1 (Pak Kwang-chon 55) Iraq 0 Prueangna 80) Thailand 1 (Suphanat Mueanta 54) Japan 3 (Taisei Japan 2 (Shunki Higashi 40, Taisei Miyashiro 70) Miyashiro 27, 44, Koki Saito 42) Indonesia 0 25/10/18 29/10/18 Japan 5 (Yuta Taki 10, Kyosuke Tagawa 27, Taichi Korea Republic 1 (Jeon Se-jin 44) Tajikistan 0 Hara 34, 77, Koki Saito 85) Iraq 0 Saudi Arabia 3 (Turki Al Ammar 7, Firas Al Buraikan Thailand 2 (Sampan Kesi 38, Korrawit Tasa 78) 50, Saud Abdulhamid 82) DPR Korea 1 (Kang Kuk-chol 45) Australia 1 (Nathaniel Atkinson 42)

Group C Semi-Finals P W D L F A +/- Pts 01/11/18 Korea Republic 3 2 1 0 7 3 4 7 Qatar 1 (Lee Jae-ik 52 OG) Korea Republic 3 (Jeon Australia 3 1 2 0 4 3 1 5 Se-jin 23, 33, Um Won-sang 45+2) Jordan 3 1 1 1 4 5 -1 4 Japan 0 Saudi Arabia 2 (Turki Al Ammar 29, Khalid Vietnam 3 0 0 3 3 7 -4 0 Al Ghannam 45+1) 19/10/18 Final Vietnam 1 (Nham Manh Dung 21) Jordan 2 (Mohammad Atieh 29, Mohammad Al Zubi 89) 04/11/18 Korea Republic 1 (Jeon Se-jin 52) Australia 1 (Ramy Korea Republic 1 (Cho Young-wook 64 pen) Saudi Najjarine 89) Arabia 2 (Turki Al Ammar 2, Khalid Al Ghannam 22)

AFC QUARTERLY 65 Inside AFC

AFC Grassroots Conference AFC President Makes Promotes ‘Fun Football’ Historic Visit to DPR Korea

he Asian Football Confederation strengthened its football is about mass participation – it is football for all,” sian Football Confederation President Shaikh sports community as well as the DPR Korea Football commitment to continue developing grassroots said Roxburgh. Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa made his historic Association on the ways that the AFC can help with after the conclusion of the A classic format of 4 versus 4 to encourage more first visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of their continued development and learn of some of the Tsecond AFC Grassroots Conference in Kuala Lumpur young children to play the sport was also discussed and AKorea in late November. challenges that they face.” in mid-November. demonstrated at the conference. It was well received by Shaikh Salman met Choe Hwi, the Chairman Shaikh Salman also visited the DPR Korea Football The three-day conference grassroots representatives as of DPR Korea State Physical Culture and Sports Association headquarters and the Pyongyang attracted 100 dedicated the format is easy to organise Guidance Commission, and Ri Ryong-nam, the International Football School. grassroots representatives and promotes the game at President of DPR Korea Football Association during from 41 Member Associations grassroots level. his short visit. (MAs) who share and support Hong Kong Football During his meeting with Mr Choe and Mr Ri, Shaikh the AFC’s Vision to ensure that Association Limited Grassroots Salman outlined the future development plans of football remains as the most Football Manager Samuel the Confederation and the increased investment in popular sport in Asia. Oliver Bensley said: “It is competitions, facilities and technical staff in the next In his keynote address, fantastic how I have so many two years. AFC Technical Director Andy ideas from this conference The AFC President said: “DPR Korea have long Roxburgh stressed on the which I can implement in Hong been one of Asia’s most successful teams in women’s importance of “The Serious Kong. We don’t have many age group football and have also won FIFA titles at Business of Fun Football”. pitches in Hong Kong so we have to be creative in ways Under-17 and Under-20 levels. The men’s national “It is serious business organising and leading fun to find a solution. team have also qualified for the AFC Asian Cup UAE football and the aim for all grassroots development “That’s why the 4 versus 4 format and its variations 2019 in January. is to encourage everyone to play. Very, very few are great. We have used this format before and will “It was an opportune moment to learn from the play professionally but we have to remember that all continue to do so with the aim of getting as many top stars were once grassroots players. Grassroots players as we can on the pitch.” UAE And Vietnam AFC-UNHRC Win New Awards Programme Concludes he United Arab Emirates and Vietnam won the strength-to-strength and this honour is a recognition of newly introduced Best Inspiring League and Best how far football in the country has developed,” said Pro he AFC-UNHCR Programme Phase 2 participants The tournament kicked off with the U-14 girls team from Developing League recognitions at the SPIA League Committee CEO Waleed Ebrahim Al Hosani. competed in a mini football carnival to mark JREC Klang meeting SK Batu Belah followed by the U-12 TConference & Awards 2018 in a grand ceremony held Under the Aspiring category, Vietnam’s V.League the closing of the second phase of this highly boys with JREC Klang playing SK Batu Belah. in Bangkok in November. 1 earned the Best Developing League award over Tsuccessful programme in the Malaysian cities of Cheered on by their peers, the U-14 boys played the The new award categories were introduced for shortlisted nominees India and Indonesia. Gombak and Klang in mid-November. final match of the mini football carnival with NFAP facing the first time in 2018 to reward Asia’s best and President and General Director of Vietnam Professional Phase 2 of the football training programme kicked off JREC Klang before the prize-giving ceremony. most promising leagues which were graded in Football Tran Anh Tu, who received the award said: in September 2018 and The students from JREC management and administration, financial performance, “I’m humbled to receive this accolade. Football is a very concluded with two of are participants of the AFC- competition, marketing and promotion and media and popular sport in our country and we are continuously the leading students from UNHCR partnership forged communications. thinking of new ways to improve the league.” the Rohingya Education in June 2017 which provides UAE’s Pro League under the Inspiring class led Centre crowned best refugees opportunities the way in the development players. through sport and football of its local football league, Both Umar Saddiq and under the AFC Dream Asia which also received the AFC’s Nur Haliza from the U-10 Foundation. League Development Award in category were chosen The programme, which February for its unique project for their dedication to the began in September 2017, on media training designed for programme, attending all encompasses empowerment, professional players. 11 sessions and having education and social “It is a proud day for football shown the ability to inclusion through sports- in the UAE to receive this perform on the pitch. related activities. prestigious award. In 10 years A total of six teams from the Rohingya Education Both organisations have participated in the project which since turning fully professional Centre (JREC) in Gombak and Klang played against utilises football as a tool for social development. and establishing the Pro teams from SK Batu Belah, Bangsar Magic FC and the The project sees students benefiting from both the League Committee, the UAE Name Football Association of Petaling (NFAP) in the health and education components as activities are done Pro League has grown from U-10, U-12 and U-14 categories. both in and out of classroom.

AFC QUARTERLY 67 Inside AFC

AFC And CIES Create Female Sports Scholarship Scheme Given Boost In UAE

he Asian Football Confederation will offer in Kuala Lumpur on October 31, 2018, the students he message of participation was heard loud five daughters play football for the UAE at different outstanding management candidates from will begin their studies in September at De Montfort and clear by women of all ages across the levels. their Member Associations a once-in-a-lifetime University in Leicester, England, for a module on the United Arab Emirates as the AFC’s It’s My Marzena, who led the discussion in Sharjah, said Topportunity to study at the world-renowned and Humanities of Sport. TGame initiative travelled to four cities in November to that sport has played such a huge role in the lives of unique FIFA Master At the start of the engage and enthuse them with the many opportunities her daughters, both socially and in terms of education: Programme thanks New Year, the class available through sports. “My daughters prefer to be out playing sports instead of to a new scholarship moves to Italy to study Led by professional in front of computer scheme. Sports Management UAE national games. As part of the at Milan’s SDA footballers and “Your health should AFC’s commitment Bocconi School leading figures from always be number to upskill staff from of Management. various sports sectors, one and sport is very Asian countries, Following completion participants heard important to this. the AFC has joined of this module, the panel discussions and My daughters play forces with the Centre class will transfer to shared their inspiring football and many International d’Etude Switzerland where they stories in a fun, other sports and du Sport (CIES) to offer are taught Sports Law informal atmosphere have made so many young professionals at the University of that included games friends through this.” the chance to study Neuchâtel for the final and football-related AFC General on the FIFA Master module of the year. activities. Secretary Dato’ International MA in After their studies The final event Windsor John, added: Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, which are complete on the FIFA Master, the graduates will panel in Sharjah was “Through the events will be spread across three universities in Europe. then be offered a secondment to work at the AFC made up of Houriya Taheri, UAE women’s national held in the UAE, the foundations have been laid to Financed through the AFC’s Solidarity Fund, which Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for a further team coach, Amal Aal Rabeea, UAE women’s national encourage further participation and we hope that It’s was announced by the AFC President Shaikh Salman year so that they can gain practical experience in team player, Latifa Al Suwaidi, Emirati hockey player My Game can help create a lasting legacy for female bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa at the 28th AFC Congress Asia’s governing Confederation. and Marzena Justyna Kowalczuk, a mother, whose sport in the UAE.”

AFC President Backs Football Groundbreaking Ceremony Development In China Held In Tehran

FC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim for PR. The country has stated its FC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al The National Centre for Iranian Football brings Al Khalifa met with H.E. Gou Zhongwen, ambition to host and win the FIFA World Cup and the Khalifa attended the groundbreaking ceremony together the Headquarters of the Football Federation Minister of General Administration of Sport AFC is ready to support those aims. for the National Centre for Iranian Football Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), the Iranian League, the Aof the People’s Republic of China and President “We have established a Task Force to work Ain the Islamic Republic of futsal development, women’s of the National Olympic closely with the Chinese Iran capital, Tehran, in early football and the national Committee, in November to Football Association (CFA), November. academy on one complex close discuss the development of particularly in the areas of Shaikh Salman said: “I to the Azadi Stadium. the game in the country. regional development and am delighted to be at this FFIRI President Mehdi Taj The Chinese Government technical improvement and groundbreaking ceremony for thanked the AFC President for under the leadership I look forward to seeing the National Centre for Iranian attending the ceremony and of President H.E Xi this assistance bring about Football and I hope to return said: “This centre is extremely Jinping has put football some excellent results.” in two years’ time to open the important for football in our development at the top of H.E Gou expressed his completed building. country. Before all the various the sports agenda in China full support for Shaikh “Iranian football is offices and centres were PR and the AFC President Salman and his vision of consistently the leading force scattered across Tehran and now has already committed the developing Asian football, in Asia and this building we will all gather in one place.” AFC to assist in the growth and appreciated the close will help them create even Under the AFC President’s of the game in the country collaboration between the stronger national teams – Infrastructure Programme, the in the coming years. CFA and AFC. both men and women – in women’s three-floor dormitory Shaikh Salman said from the Chinese capital, “We thank you for all the support the CFA continues the future. I am particularly pleased that the AFC will be built at the National Football Centre which will Beijing: “The meeting with H.E. Gou Zhongwen to receive and look forward to achieving our common President’s Infrastructure fund has helped finance a provide more than 40 rooms and other facilities for was important to hear his thoughts on the direction goals together,” he said. new dormitory for women players.” around 70 players.

AFC QUARTERLY 69 Great Grounds of Asia MOHAMMED BIN ZAYED Relax STADIUM ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

ome to UAE Pro Upon its reopening, the stadium’s capacity of the UAE national team in their 2018 League side Al Jazira, was increased from 15,000 to 42,000. FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. Mohammed bin Zayed Centrally located in Abu Dhabi’s Al Muroor At the prestigious AFC Asian Cup Stadium is one of the district, the premises at UAE 2019 in January, Mohammed bin United Arab Emirates’ include a hospital, a boutique-style hotel and Zayed Stadium will play host to four pre-eminent sporting an Olympic-sized pool. group stage matches, one Round of hubs. Built in 1979, the Over the past ten years, Mohammed bin 16 tie, one quarter-final and one semi- capital’s oldest football Zayed Stadium has hosted the FIFA Club final, with some of the continent’s ON THE EDGE stadium saw a complete overhaul that World Cup on three occasions, in 2009, finest players to take to the field at of your seat lastedH three years between 2006 and 2009. 2010 and 2017. The venue was also home Abu Dhabi’s second biggest stadium.

White keyline version to be used on red background only

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AFC QUARTERLY 70 *ice TV Live with live news and sport available on most B777s and select A380s. ^Widescreen TVs available on select aircraft. For more information visit emirates.com/au, call 1300 303 777, or contact your local travel agent. “At the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019, we will witness the Continent’s greatest players and teams at the very peak of their performance deliver moments that will live long in the memory.”

Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa AFC President