In a highly anticipated match at Al Bayt Stadium, Qatar takes on Tajikistan in their quest for a place in the knockout stage of the Asian Cup.
After impressive performances in their opening games, both teams will be eager to secure a victory and advance further in the tournament.
Match Preview:
Tajikistan showcased their potential in their first-ever encounter at the Asian Cup against China.
Despite ending in a goalless draw, Tajikistan’s young team displayed their attacking prowess and kept their opponents on the back foot throughout the game.
The result extended their unbeaten run to six matches, with their last failure to score dating back to March 2023.
Additionally, Tajikistan has shown defensive solidity by conceding just one goal or fewer in their past six fixtures.
Qatar, the reigning Asian champions, started their campaign with a convincing 3-0 win over Lebanon.
Their aggressive style of play paid off, as they found the back of the net multiple times for the fourth time in their last five matches.
A victory in this game, coupled with a positive result for China against Lebanon, would ensure Qatar’s progression into the last 16 for the second consecutive time.
Team News:
Tajikistan made three changes to their starting lineup in their previous game, introducing Rustam Yatimov, Alisher Shukurov, and Amadoni Kamolov.
Ehson Panjshanbe and captain Parvizdzhon Umarbayev are closing in on significant milestones, with only a few caps separating them from their respective targets.
Tajikistan will be eager to score their first-ever goal at this tournament after their 2-1 triumph over Hong Kong.
Qatar, on the other hand, introduced two newcomers, Al-Mahdi Ali Mukhtar and Yusuf Abdurisag, in their opening game against Jordan.
The team showcased depth and quality as they comfortably defeated Lebanon 3-0. Akram Afif and record goalscorer Almoez Ali were among the standout performers for Qatar.
Possible Lineups:
Tajikistan: (4-5-1)
Yatimov;
Safarov, Khanonov, Dzhuraboyev, Nazarov;
Shukurov, Umarbayev; Ayni, Dzhalilov, Panjshanbe;
Soirov
Qatar: (3-4-1-2)
Barsham;
Miguel, Mukhtar, Mendes;
Mohammed, Al-Haydos, Fatehi, Hatem;
Gaber;
Afif, Ali
Prediction: Tajikistan 0-3 Qatar
We anticipate an entertaining game with Qatar ultimately emerging victorious. Tajikistan’s attacking approach may leave them vulnerable at the back, and Qatar possesses experienced attackers who can exploit any gaps left by their opponents.
