Translate to English: The Iranian national team, considered one of the strongest in Asia, was regarded as one of the main favorites long before the tournament. Amir Ghalenoi’s team breezed through the group stage, becoming one of only three teams to win all three matches. However, in the first knockout match against Syria, the “Persian Leopards” underestimated their opponent, allowing them to equalize. In the end, playing with a numerical disadvantage, Iran barely made it to the penalty shootout, where they secured a spot in the quarterfinals. On the contrary, against Japan, Iran managed to turn the tide of the match and responded with two goals in the second half.
Qatar sensationally won the previous Asia Cup, and that’s why, like Iran, they were considered favorites. Interestingly, the Qataris also won all three matches in the group stage and maintained a solid defense. The knockout stage posed challenges for Tintin Marques’ team, as they conceded their first goal against Palestine and had to play a comeback. Credit should be given to the “Maroons” as they successfully navigated the situation, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory. In the quarterfinals, Qatar faced Uzbekistan and clinched a spot in the semifinals in a penalty shootout.
