Teams Set for Knockout Stage
The anticipation is reaching its peak as the AFC Asian Cup Round of 16 takes center stage. The last four teams—Bahrain, South Korea, Jordan, and Thailand—solidified their spots, shaping the path for a thrilling knockout phase.
Group Stage Dynamics
In adherence to the competition format, the 24 men’s football teams competing in the Qatar Asian Cup navigated through six groups (Group A to F) during the group phase. The single-headed round-robin format saw teams in each group battling it out, with the top two directly qualifying for the Round of 16.
Moreover, the four best third-placed teams from all groups secured their spots in the final 16, intensifying the competition.
Powerhouses Secure Spots
Hosts and reigning champions, Qatar, set the tone by securing an early spot in the knockout stage. Dominating Group A with successive wins over Lebanon and Tajikistan, Qatar capped off their group stage with a victory against the People’s Republic of China.
The spotlight now shifts to Bahrain, South Korea, Jordan, and Thailand—the last quartet to advance to the Round of 16.
Round of 16 Schedule
January 28, Sunday:
- Tajikistan vs UAE
- Iraq vs Jordan
January 29, Monday:
- Australia vs Indonesia
- Saudi Arabia vs South Korea
January 30, Tuesday:
- Uzbekistan vs Thailand
- Qatar vs Palestine
January 31, Wednesday:
- Bahrain vs Japan
- Iran vs Syria
Road to Glory
The stakes are high as these matchups unfold, promising intense battles and showcasing the prowess of each team. The victors from the Round of 16 will move on to the quarter-finals, commencing on February 2.
Culmination in February
Mark your calendars for the semi-finals scheduled on February 6 and 7, building up to the grand finale on February 8. The AFC Asian Cup 2023 is on track to deliver a football spectacle, with each match adding to the suspense and excitement of this prestigious tournament.
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