Asian Cup: Round of 16 Previews

Iraq – Jordan

Iraq, with an impressive group stage performance with three victories, including a notable win against Japan, faces off against Jordan, who secured the third position in their group with 4 points. Mousa Al-Taamari, from Montpellier HSC, was key for Jordan in the group stage as he scored two goals in their match against Malaysia. 

Uzbekistan – Thailand 

Uzbekistan, led by defender Abdukodir Khusanov from RC Lens in Ligue 1, aims to build on their second-place finish in the group stage. Khusanov has had notable contributions in the matches against Syria and India. Meanwhile, without representation in the French league, Thailand secured the second spot in their group with 5 points. 

Saudi Arabia – South Korea

Saudi Arabia will face off against a South Korean side who have been helped by outstanding performances from Lee Kang-in from Paris Saint-Germain. The winger helped secure a place in the knockout stage with notable contributions, including two goals against Bahrain and a goal and assist against Malaysia. 

Bahrain – Japan

Bahrain, showcasing an impressive group stage performance by finishing atop their group, prepares to face Japan, a team with notable French league representation. Japan boasts a trio of talents from Ligue 1, including Takumi Minamino of AS Monaco, and Keito Nakamura and Junya Itō, both representing Stade de Reims. Minamino had a great performance against Vietnam, where he scored two goals and provided an assist. Nakamura also scored a goal in the same match, while Itō looks to make more of an impact in the upcoming round.