As dawn breaks on Saturday, the Asian Cup, the top feast of Asian soccer, will ignite in Qatar as 24 powerhouses gather to compete for glory. In addition to traditional powerhouses such as Japan, South Korea, Australia, Iran, China and Saudi Arabia, new faces such as Maba will also join the final week melee. Former Japan international footballer Shouren Sato will analyze the grouping situation for fans in preparation for this soccer feast.
Group A: Hosts Qatar secure victory
As the hosts, Qatar are well prepared for the Asian Cup, and with Group A seemingly empty, it is expected that the reigning champions Qatar will easily finish at the top of the group. Despite a poor showing at the 2022 World Cup, the World Cup is a much higher level, and Qatar is expected to play well at the Asian Cup and advance.
China: Expecting a second-place breakthrough as old meets new
Chinese soccer is in a critical period of transition between the old and the new, and the recent situation is fluctuating. However, China has strong strength and is expected to finish second in the group and advance to the knockout stage. Wu Lei, as the core of the team, will play a key role.
Tajikistan: Challenges ahead as first-time qualifier
Tajiks, who are playing in the Asian Cup group stage for the first time, are expected to qualify in Group A. However, Tajiks will need to fight hard to win against the challenge of Lebanon. The match between China and Tajik will decide the qualification situation of this group.
Group B: Australia expected to break out
Australia emerge as Asia's most successful team at the 2022 World Cup. With new stars emerging and Aylett continuing to coach, Australia is expected to top Group B and advance. Team spirit will be the key for Australia to advance.
Uzbekistan: following closely, trying to get second place
Uzbekistan have a number of potential stars in their squad and are expected to finish second and advance. Syria and India will battle it out for third place, with Syria expected to beat India for a chance to advance.
Group C: Iran leads strongly
Iran had a poor showing in the last World Cup, but is strong on the offensive end and is expected to qualify at the top of Group C. Asmon will be a key player for Iran.
UAE: New manager Paul Bintou brings change
UAE are expected to qualify in the second place under new manager Paul Bintu. They will be looking to show their strength in the group stage to qualify for the round of 16.
Palestine: Shocking history, hopeful of advancement
Palestine is expected to finish third in this Asian Cup and have a chance to reach the Round of 16. Hong Kong will face stiff competition in this group.
Group D: Japan leads the way with overclasses
Japan is a strong team and is expected to advance to the top of Group D. Despite the late return of some players, the overall strength of the Japanese team remains strong.
Iraq and Vietnam: the battle for second place
Iraq is expected to finish second in the group stage and advance to the Round of 16. Vietnam are expected to finish third and have a better chance of advancing.
Group E: South Korea leads the way
South Korea has a strong power and is expected to advance to the top of Group E. Players such as Kim Min Jae and Son Heung Min will play a key role.
Malaysia: challenging South Korea for second place
Malaysia is expected to finish second in the group and advance to the Round of 16. A clash between Bahrain and Malaysia will determine the final standings of the group.
Group F: Saudi Arabia expected to lock up top spot
Saudi Arabia is expected to qualify at the top of Group F. Vinzeni's coaching ability will help the Saudis to achieve a good result.
Thailand: Challenges Ahead for Second Place
Thailand is expected to finish second in the group and advance to the Round of 16. Kyrgyzstan and Oman are expected to finish third.
Group F: Saudi Arabia expected to lock up top spot
Saudi Arabia is expected to qualify at the top of Group F. Vinzeni's coaching ability will help the Saudis to achieve a good result.
