Iraq's masterclass, Korea's struggle, and other talking points from AFC Asian Cup 2023 Matchday 2

Matchday 2 of the AFC Asian Cup 2023 surprised the fans with a few upsets.

After an interesting and competitive matchday 1 of the AFC Asian Cup 2023, teams were more resilient in their performances in the second round of fixtures. As the competition approaches its last matchday in the group stages, the stakes are high.

Majority of the teams are still in contention for the Round of 16, adding an extra layer of significance to their upcoming final fixtures. Japan and South Korea came into this tournament with high expectations, being considered strong contenders. However, both teams have encountered challenges in breaking down their respective opponents during the initial stages of the competition.

Let’s dive deep into the main talking points from Matchday 2 of the AFC Asian Cup 2023.

4. A mighty ASEAN battle

A mighty ASEAN battle between Vietnam and Indonesia ended with the latter registering a 1-0 win after their skipper Asnawi Mangkualam converted from a penalty. Vietnam put up an excellent fight against Indonesia, making it very difficult for them. The match was completely end-to-end with emphatic saves from the Indonesian custodian securing the much-needed victory.

3. A tough fight by Malaysia

Indian football team and their fans were having an eye on the match between Malaysia and Bahrain as the top four third-place spots were up for grabs and certainly with the kind of performance and perseverance illustrated by the Malaysian side, a draw could have been convincing. However, the Malaysian dreams were buried in the deserts of Qatar as their much emphatic hold was spoiled with a last-minute goal from Bahrain winger Ali Madan.

2. Jordan’s masterclass against South Korea

In a game full of twists and turns, interestingly Jordan were denied a famous win over South Korea by a late own goal. Irrespective of an early goal by Spurs skipper Son Heung-min from a penalty, it was all about Jordan in terms of strength and attacks. The chances that were being created by Jordan were superior enough to give them a competitive lead in the first half, despite the ball possession registered by South Korea.

1. Iraq upset Japan

The best of the matches of the second matchday had to be the biggest upset where Iraq took down Asian giants Japan to secure a narrow victory and an important place in the Round of 16. The goals came from the likes of the striker Aymen Hussein.

Japan pulled one back late in the game through skipper Wataru Endo. But, that wasn’t enough to capitalize for a draw.

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