Japan, Qatar earn big wins before AFC Asian Cup 2023

Both Japan and Qatar are favourites to win the AFC Asian Cup this time!

Japan put on a fine performance in front of their home fans in Tokyo as they beat Thailand 5-0 in an international friendly match as they geared up towards the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.

Qatar also showed that they are in fine form, handing Cambodia a 3-0 defeat while Lebanon, Oman and United Arab Emirates also achieved wins in their respective friendlies.

At the Tokyo National Stadium on Monday, Hajime Moriyasu gave opportunities for players to stake a claim in the final squad and was rewarded with a fine display.

After a goalless opening period, the Samurai Blue came to life in the second half with Ao Tanaka, Keito Nakamura, Takumu Kawamura and Takumi Minamoto all getting on the scoresheet with Elias Dolah scoring an own goal.

An Almoez Ali hat-trick in the first 45 minutes paved the way for Qatar to beat Cambodia at the Thani Bin Jassim Stadium on Sunday, the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Golden Boot winner showing he will be one to watch in the upcoming tournament.

Experienced forward Ali Mabkhout struck the winning penalty in stoppage time as UAE beat Kyrgyz Republic 1-0 to pick up their seventh consecutive win under Paulo Bento.

In other friendlies, Lebanon edged Jordan 2-1 while Oman beat China PR 2-0. 

India, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia have already arrived in Doha with Palestine, Jordan and Uzbekistan scheduled to check in on Tuesday.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.