Iraq vs. Japan (Friday, 11.30am)
© Reuters
First place in Group D will be on the line Friday as Iraq and Japan square off on matchday two of the Asian Cup at Education City Stadium.
The Lions of Mesopotamia managed a 3-1 victory over Indonesia in their opener, while the record four-time winners of this tournament were able to fend off a relentless Vietnam side, winning 4-2.
We say: Iraq 1-3 Japan
It has been quite some time since anyone has figured out how to slow down this dynamic Japanese attack, who continue to score at a torrid pace, and that alone should be more than enough to earn them another victory.
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Vietnam vs. Indonesia (Friday, 2.30pm)
© Reuters
Two teams searching for their first points at the 2023 Asian Cup will do battle on Friday as Vietnam and Indonesia square off in Group D action at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha.
In their opening fixture the Golden Star Warriors could not maintain their first-half advantage, losing 4-2 to Japan, while the Indonesians suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Iraq.
We say: Vietnam 2-1 Indonesia
These sides are relatively equal in terms of quality, but Troussier's major tournament experience could give the Vietnamese a slight edge in this match.
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Hong Kong vs. Iran (Friday, 5.30pm)
© Reuters
Iran can take another step towards an eighth successive trip to the knockout stage of the Asian Cup when they face Hong Kong on Friday at Khalifa International Stadium.
The Dragons lost their opening encounter, 3-1, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), while Iran had little trouble dispatching Palestine, winning 4-1.
We say: Hong Kong 1-5 Iran
Hong Kong may feel a little hard done by in their opener, but on Friday, they could have their hands full against a determined Iranian side eager to book a spot in the knockout stage as quickly as possible.
Iran seem to have found their scoring touch in 2024, netting 11 times in just three matches, and we expect them to bury the many chances they are likely to have against a passive Hong Kong side.
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Barney Corkhill
