ABDULRAHMAN NOT THE ONLY THREAT TO SAMURAIS

At yesterday's pre match press conference for Japan versus United Arab Emirates, Samurai Blue manager Javier Aguirre made it clear that his team will be wary of more than just shining light Omar Abdulrahman.

Aguirre's tenure as manager for Japan has been largely successful, apart from a hammering from Brazil in October, while fielding an experimental squad.

But now Japan faces a stern test. They've had quite an easy group stage where it's been possible for them to take their foot off the accelerator and ease back. That won't be possible against the UAE who dominated the majority of their match with Iran.

Probed on who was the key player in the UAE, Aguirre paid respect to the whole team. "I would not be fair to them if I name some. They're a competitive team," the manager said.

Clearly Aguirre didn't want to give airplay to his means of containing Omar Abdulrahman, though Japan would be naive though if they thought they could get through this match without a plan for the UAE's key player.

Meanwhile, United Arab Emirates manager Mahdi Ali has hinted that his team will be doing their best to close down Keisuke Honda. Ali and his team have studied Japan closely and he noted, "They always play an open game and they like to play a possession game, and for us I think it is the same."

With the game played in Sydney tonight, it's expected that more than 20,000 will be in attendance. Last night Melbourne was able to draw 23,381 to the Korea Republic vs Uzbekistan quarter final. Though Sydney still has a semi final to host, plus the final, the 'big city' will quietly assert itself again tonight as the premier sporting city of Australia.

Samurai Blue will have the majority of the support given Australia's fondness for all things Japanese. But if the Asian Cup champions advance to the semi final in Newcastle, the fondness and friendly relations will be cast aside.

CHINA SETS UP QUARTER FINAL FIXTURE WITH AUSTRALIA

China vs DPR Korea at Canberra

Safely qualified for the knoockout phase China met DPR Korea in Canberra for the last of their group round fixtures. Their opponents on the other hand were playing with two losses behind them, and the knowledge they'd soon be leaving the sunny shores of Australia.

Early on North Korea displayed some of the defencive frailties that have been a hallmark of their campaign. They went behind inside the first minute after a centre back misjudged the flight of the ball, and in form striker Sun, Ke pounced.

By the 15th minute Ke was through on goal again, but on this occasion it was owed to a clever interplay in midfield. The Jiangsu Sainty recruit found himself on the right of the box and unselfishly, sent a low ball across the face of goal. His teammates were unable to meet the ball, for what would have been a tap in.

A regular theme throughout the half were the sightings of both Chinese fullbacks in the attacking third. Manager Alain Perrin it seems has given them license to roam, and coupled with the passing game of Hao, Junmin, the Chinese pose a true threat.

Though it should be mentioned that before Sun, Ke made it 2-0 with a gift of a goal, the North Koreans did open up the Chinese. Jong, Il Kwan lunged at close to full stretch, in order to race the advancing Wang, Dalei (GK) to a lobbed through ball. His contact was too heavy though and the ball sailed over the bar.

With their 2-0 lead in hand China took their foot off the gas in the second half. The replacement of Guangzhou's battle hardened midfielder Zheng, Zhi may have had a lot to do with the space the North Koreans suddenly had to operate in.

Barely ten minutes into the second half, a cross was allowed to sail from one side of the box to the other. It was left to 22 year old Jong Il Kwan to finish the job, with a neat cut back and finish. Sadly for Jong the goal was labelled an own goal, after deflecting off Gao Lin.

North Korea threatened again late in the match, and this will be something manager Allain Perrin will be analysing in the lead up to the quarter final with Australia in Brisbane.

Asked about China's second half performance after the match, Zhang, Linpeng put it down to mental strength. "We didn't concentrate very well, so we made some mistakes."

Quizzed on how China could beat the Socceroos, the Guangzhou Evergrande fullback indicated his confidence in his French manager. "Australia's team is a very strong team, the players are very strong, very skillful, very fast. We just need to follow the coach's instructions," he said.

China will head to Brisbane as underdogs, and for the first time their fans will be outnumbered. On their side though is the fact they've won on the much maligned Brisbane surface, twice. Contrastingly it's Australia who has been one of the loudest detractors of the pitch.

IRAN vs QATAR: Match Report

Tens of thousands of Iranian fans descended upon Sydney's Stadium Australia for what was expected to be akin to a training ground match, after opponents Qatar were battered by UAE in their Asian Cup  opener.

But the Iranians met a commited opponent. Early on the Iranians had the better of play. Forward Sardar's glancing header had the fans on their feet and the Qataris looked lost in the noise and fanfare created by the large Iranian contingent in attendance. 

However, the Gulf Cup champions found a way into the match. There best outlet Lekhwiya midfielder Mohamad Ismail, made countless runs into the attacking third. Unfortunately for Qatar his crosses were either intercepted or of poor quality. 

Qatar's left back also found a way into the attacking third, and a measure of the seriousness of his threat was the manner in which Dejagah brought him down. His sliding tackle from behind could politely be described as disrespectful of a fellow professional. Unbelievably Dejagah got off scot free. 

With Qatar having the better of play by the half hour mark, a frustrated Nekounam could be seen gesticulating toward Masoud. While the experienced heads talked, Dejagah was busy in the action, reeling off a shot on the brink of half time, as Iran edged back into the contest.

At the commencement of the second half Iran asserted themselves. Midfielder Masoud forcing his opponent into a yellow card offence as he dribbled man on man toward the perimeter of the box. And when Qatar turned it over in their own half the rampaging Dejagah was on the scene to quickly feed Sardar. Sardar simply swivelled and lost his marker, before stabbing the ball into the far corner.

Iran were happy to sit back and attack on the break from that point on. Former Fulham midfielder Dejagah putting in an 'energizer bunny' performance as his teammates provided a free sample of Iran's award winning defence. 

Qatar threw everything at the Iranians, but Team Melli showed more evidence of their signature impregnable defence. Though early on Muntari was often short of a teammate in the attacking third, late in the second half, Qatar would have needed their whole complement to surge forward to match Iran's numbers at the back. 

The final minutes became a replay reel of Qatari long balls, launched in vein, as Iran's battalion at the back remained miserly. Iran now head into their match with UAE assured of qualification for the knockout phase, likewise their opponents. Both will march with trepidation toward a possible quarter final showdown with Japan.

KUWAIT v KOREA REPUBLIC: Match Report

More then 9000 were in attendance on Tuesday for Kuwait vs Korea Republic. Those there,  predominantly in red turned the fixture into a quasi home game for the Taeguk Warriors.

In an uneventful and tame first 20 minutes Kuwait looked to be capable of matching the Koreans, who were fielding a first eleven minus a number of starters from their Asian Cup opener.

Creative midfielder Aziz looked to be the outlet for Kuwait with a couple of maizy runs from midfield. Unfortunately Aziz was also responsible for some errant passes as Kuwait struggled to maintain meaningful possession the longer the half went.

In the 25th minute some sloppy work by Jang allowed Yousef to pounce and the two were shoulder to shoulder heading into the box. Jang already cautioned did enough to force a poor first touch from Yousef, and the danger was averted.

The incident proved to be a turning point, minutes later Lee, Keun Ho was staring down goal with a one on one opportunity after a Kuwaiti opponent was dispossessed. The former Gamba Osaka forward's lob tapped over the bar.

But the Koreans would get their go ahead goal in the 36th minute. It was via what could be called a Korean cliche - another Cha Du Ri wing raid. Nam Tae Hee flew through a pack of blue shirts to make it one nil, with his head.

The second half got underway in the same inclement conditions but the action was at maximum contrast settings. Kuwait were ready to take risks with their Asian Cup lives on the line.

Midfielder Ali Almaqseed was first to raise the question with his shot that rattled the woodwork. A free kick moments later sailed on by the Korean defence the saving grace being that their Kuwaiti opponents were caught off guard, unable to poke home what should have been an equaliser.

The pulsating second half saw both teams with multiple chances, the Koreans wasteful when they surged into the attacking third with extra men. But the highlight of the match was the courageous performance of Aziz.

The midfielder winning a number of free kicks and playing himself to a stand still with step overs, and evasive dribbling. Teammate Almaqseed was just as inspirational though at one stage his enthusiasm bubbled over into a reckless foul on Ki.

For Korea Republic the match will raise questions about their defence as they were regularly prised open through the centre of the field. And their finishing will also come under scrutiny, no doubt they'll head into their final group match against Australia with a stronger first eleven.

For Kuwait, Oman must spring an upset against the Socceroos tonight, before the blues then face their Gulf rivals on Saturday in Newcastle. Korea Republic 1-0 Kuwait.

JAPAN v PALESTINE - Match Report

A large contingent of flag waving Palestinian fans blew into Newcastle for the country's first ever Asian Cup fixture. Facing the continental champions Japan, the odds were stacked against them, though the weather conditions certainly hindered the favourites.

Japan got the scoring underway after the Palestinians laid deep, inviting trouble. Midfield general Yasuhito Endo used the time and space to drive the ball from outside the box, into the far left of goal.

For a brief period the Palestinians had themselves in the attacking third, but it was brief and unthreatening.

Making an impact however, was Japan's fresh faced right back Gotoku Sakai. The Stuttgart defender linked well on a number of occasions with Shinji Okazaki and Keisuke Honda.

When Japan's second goal did finally arrive it was with the aid of some good fortune. Left back Nagatomo had charged into the box rounding defenders at the bye-line where he had no option but to cross. The Palestinians failed to fully clear. Dortmund attacker Kagawa bursted onto the ball from midfield, with forward Okazaki redirecting the missile into goal.

With a 2-nil deficit to act on Palestine showed some encouraging signs through midfield, Said and Abuhabib linking occasionally. But the wind was taken out of their sails when a penalty was awarded moments before half time. Honda slotting it away after Okazaki was clattered into.

The second half was barely underway when Southampton defender Maya Yoshida made it 4-0. The big man simply leaping higher than his opponents.

From that point the Japanese seemed to take the foot off the pedal. Half time substitute Kiyotake and 58th minute sub Muto were unable to maintain the momentum.

Despite the scoreline and windy conditions the Palestinian fans continued to sing and dance, and every time star striker Ashraf found himself with the ball near the box, the decibels were raised.

With 73 minutes past defender Mahajna picked up his second yellow card. At that point there was a feeling the flood gates may open but the Japanese didn't take advantage. It was a second half performance that never kicked off.

Apart from a late goal mouth scramble Japan didn't look like extending their four goal lead.

Nevertheless the champions of Asia have stamped their mark on the tournament, matching Australia's four goal haul against Kuwait. Japan now head to Brisbane, to take on Iraq who defeated Jordan 1-0.

SAMURAIS IN HIGH SPIRITS

Japan's Yoshinori Muto. Picture courtesy Kaoru Watanabe.

On Saturday morning Japan conducted a light training session at Newcastle's No. 2 Sportsground.

The team was greeted by muggy conditions, but the humidity had no affect on the spirits of the players.

As the team enjoyed a light hearted kick about to get the session underway, cackles of laughter echoed about the sparsely populated ground.  Clearly the team had forgotten about their disappointing loss to Brazil in October.

At that time manager Javier Aguirre was blooding some new talent after a disappointing World Cup in Brazil. Though Japan was defeated 4-0, a number of players benefited from the Mexican's decision to experiment. 

One of those players was Yoshinori Muto. The young striker said, "If I play on Monday, I just want a good result. I'm not so concerned with goals." 

Muto talks with East Asian Soccer.
Picture - Kaoru Watanabe.

The 22 year old is expected to start off the bench behind Germany based Shinji Okazaki. Pressed on who he had learnt the most from in the camp Muto answered, “Everyone here has high skill levels, so I’ve learnt from everyone.” 

Muto enjoyed a break out season with his J-League club FC Tokyo last year, scoring 13 goals for the mid table outfit. 

Meanwhile, on Sunday Southampton's Maya Yoshida rocked the AFC boat by suggesting the tournament be staged in the northern hemisphere summer.

Speaking to the Newcastle Herald the defender said, "I know it's very difficult with TV rights and broadcasts, but I think the best time is the same time as the Euro." 

As defending champions and favourites for the Asian Cup, Japan will have a weight of pressure on them, illustrated by the media throng that tracks the national team’s every move. 

Japan’s first assignment is at Hunter Stadium tonight. They meet unknowns Palestine. From there Japan conducts a Tuesday morning training session in Newcastle, before heading to Brisbane for their clash with Iraq. 

ASIAN CUP SET TO PROVIDE SURPRISES

Son, Heung Min in action for Korea Republic.

With hosts Australia going through an identity crisis at the moment, and numerous other Asian Cup contenders taking on new managers recently, the continental tournament is set to provide plenty of shocks.

Last year East Asian Soccer said neither Australia nor Japan could win the tournament. Since then Japan has experienced a stunning form turnaround, whilst Australia is still languishing at 100 in the FIFA rankings. 

Yes, Japan are back on our contenders list but there has been nothing to suggest Australia can suddenly halt their steep descent through the rankings. Current manager Ange Postecoglou is defiant in his bid to play pressing and passing football, despite the results the tactics have yielded (2 wins from 12 matches). 

The Socceroos come into the tournament opener against Kuwait heavily dependent on Tim Cahill. "They've always been a difficult opponent for Australia . . ." Postecoglou told the media at a recent press conference. But the general public are totally unaware of the threat of Kuwait. One radio station had hosts talking about brining on substitutes against Kuwait if the Aussies are leading 3-nil or 6-nil.

Kuwait themselves have had a recent managerial change and their form is also on a downward spiral, winning 1 from their last 6. Boss Nabil Maaloul said the team had regained some confidence since he took charge on December 18, after a disappointing Gulf Cup. Head to head it's Kuwait 5, Australia 3, and 2 draws.

Winners of the Gulf Cup in November, Qatar do nothing but impress me, and they're the dark horse of the tournament. The Maroon are undefeated in their last 11 matches. Amongst the scalps they've claimed are Uzbekistan, Australia and Estonia. In a tournament full of questions, the form line of Qatar provides answers. They'll advance through Group C, but they need to win their group or they'll face Japan in the quarter finals.

Iran manager Carlos Queiroz.

Iran were an early favourite at East Asian Soccer but their disrupted campaign has us concerned. Team Melli has had just two friendlies since their decent showing at Brazil 2014. Though it should be noted they won those two friendlies. One against Korea Republic in November and the other against Iraq last week. 

In their favour is the fact they meet Bahrain first, who we see as the weakest of their group opponents. Manager Carlos Queiroz has been coy since arriving in Australia and you get the feeling Iran is ticking along fine behind the smoke and mirrors.

Korea Republic is another definite contender. The Taeguk Warriors have too much class to not make an impact here in Australia. They haven't won the tournament since 1960 and it's high time for them to taste success again. 

With European based stars Ki Seung Yong, Lee Chung Yong,  Son Heung Min it's silly to think the Reds won't click at some stage of the tournament. After their wretched performance at Brazil, they'll be out to make amends. 

New manager Uli Stielike was a surprise choice for many, given he's had an on-off experience as boss. Most recently at Al Arabi in the Qatari Star League, the German should not have a problem with getting the Korean to click. Their glamour is backboned by some experienced campaigners, Cha Du Ri, Lee Keun Ho and 29 year old goalkeeper Jung Sung Ryong.

Korea Republic will advance through their group and most likely face China or Uzbekistan, from their they'll face Iran or Qatar in the semi final, before going all the way in front of a ravenous crowd of expats in Sydney. 

The Asian Cup is sure to provide plenty of surprises over the next three weeks. I'm crossing my fingers the hosts can advance beyond the group stage.