AFC Asian Cup 2023: Kyrgyz Republic vs Saudi Arabia: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Saudi Arabia will aim to secure their spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 round of 16.

After a heartbreaking defeat in their AFC Asian Cup 2023 opener, Kyrgyz Republic will need to bounce back stronger if they want to advance further into the tournament. But, standing in their way will be a confident Saudi Arabia side.

The Green Falcons pulled off a memorable 2-1 comeback victory in their curtain raiser against Oman. They were trailing until the 78th minute when Abdulrahman Ghareeb scored the equaliser. And then Al-Hilal’s star defender Ali Al-Bulayhi scored the winner in the 96th minute and won the game for his side.

Kick Off

January 21, 2024 23:00 IST

January 21, 2024 20:30 GMT+3

January 21, 2024 23:30 GMT+6

Form

Kyrgyz Republic (in all competitions) L-W-D-L-L

Saudi Arabia (in all competitions) W-W-D-W-W

Players to watch

Kayrat Zhyrgalbek uulu (Kyrgyzstan)

The Kyrgyz captain put in a good shift in his side’s opening match. Kayrat had a busy outing in the clash against Thailand. A leader at the back, the 30-year-old has played a crucial role in helping his side qualify for the continental championship. He is an attacking full-back and makes bombing runs forward which can cause a few problems for Saudi Arabia.

Abdulrahman Ghareeb (Saudi Arabia)

The midfielder put in an excellent shift in his side’s opening game. Ghareeb came off the bench and changed the dynamics of the game completely. He scored the all important equaliser for his side and initiated a comeback. He is known for his ball distribution and dribbling and will have a major role to play in Saudi Arabia’s AFC Asian Cup 2023 campaign.

Match facts

• It will be the first match between the two teams since 1996.
• Kyrgyz Republic have never managed to score a single goal against Saudi Arabia in three meetings.
• Saudi Arabia have an 100% win record against Kyrgyz Republic.

Injury and Team News

Both teams are expected to have a fully fit squad available for selection for this AFC Asian Cup 2023 clash.

Head-to-head

Total Matches played – 3

Kyrgyz Republic Wins – 0

Saudi Arabia Wins – 3

Draws – 0

Predicted Line-up

Kyrgyz Republic (4-4-2)

Erzhan, Bekzhan, Ayzar, Tamirlan, Kairat, Gulzhigit, Bakhtiyar, Odilzhon, Kai, Kimi, Joel

Saudi Arabia (3-5-2)

Ahmed, Hassan, Ali, Albulayhi, Saud, Abdullah, Sami, Mohamed, Nasser, Selah, Salem

Prediction for Kyrgyz Republic vs Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia are undoubtedly the clear favourites coming into this game. Kyrgyz Republic on the other hand, will surely try their best to keep Saudi Arabia at bay, but might not be successful and face another defeat.

Prediction: Kyrgyz Republic 0-3 Saudi Arabia

Telecast for Kyrgyz Republic vs Saudi Arabia

India – Sports 18, Jio Cinema

Kyrgyz Republic – YTPK

Saudi Arabia – Shahid

Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, Yemen, Oman – BeinSports, Alkass

United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Belgium, Netherlands – Triller TV

Australia – Network 10

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