Asian Football: AFC Asian Cup 2007
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Any idea what time the Iraq versus Thai match (local time)? I hope its on TV here in Japan since it is an opening match.They should battle hard to beat the Iraqis today or else face a steep uphill task later.Thais would do anything to please the King and country in any sporting event and I believe their target is at least the quaterfinals and at the very best semis cuz this may be their last Birthday present for the ailing monarch.Who is the top player in Korea now and are they still using the same World Cup keeper? Here in Japan we dont have many stars except for Nakamura and World Cup players like Takahara a veteran keeper Kawaguchi and our Foreign Talent Santos & Tulio.I personally feel that if there are too many stars the skies would fall down to earth
Good news is that Takahara has found his scoring touch and great news is that we will never ever see people like Suzuki or Yanagisawa wearing the blue jersey again. -
Thank you for your opinion. No, I'm not belittling the competition. They deserve some credit of course. You need a bit of luck. In competitions, sometime the best team doesn't win. On many occasions, the favorites would end up defeated. People can say they're unlucky or didn't perform up to expectation or wasted their chances. Right?Originally posted by SumOne:About Singapore winning in Asean, well, it's no easy feat to win any Cup Competition, and you do need a bit of luck sometimes to even get to the final. You are kind of belittling the competition with some of the things you say. I think credit still should go to the current Singapore team to take their chances, they are not undeserving winners in any sense. To come from 1-0 down to draw the match in a hostile Thai enviroment is by no means any easy feat. Add to that the small number of supporters who actually went for the match. Credit should be given where it's due.
And about your comment on hostile Thai environment, I don't agree with it. I believe this is what the Singapore media's bad habit of over exagerating the situation after that 1st leg's incident. That's something a lot of foreigners always feel about the Singapore's media or government (sorry, don't mean to put politics in but it's true). They tend to portray other countries' situation as 'dangerous', 'messy', 'hostile' or something negative that affect Singaporeans' feelings about other countries. ( Nothing is good about others except Singapore.)
According to the fact at that time, from my numerous contacts in Bangkok, the Thai people were living everyday as usual. The Thai fans weren't hostile. Bangkok environment was as usual. Nothing negative or dangerous. It's the media that scared Singapore supporters and the team and play down on Thailand. Thus many supporters from Singapore canceled their trips. In fact I find Thai people very disciplined and friendly citizens. Otherwise millions of foreigners won't be visiting, living and working there every year.
In fact, when I was in the National Stadium watching the games that Singapore played in, the Singapore fans appeared to be more hostile to the away teams. They would always curse out all the local vulgar terms loudly on the away teams. Even when it's true a foul by Singapore players on the opponent players, the local fans in Singapore would just curse out those 'CB', 'referee Kayu', 'KNN', 'FCUK U' kind of words on the referees or the opponent players. How do we justify that then?
In Korea, I've watched international football games and I can assure you that I have never seen Korean supporters curse and swear out loud at opponent teams or referees like what some Singapore supporters do. Unless there is some injustice over the referee's decision or unsporting conduct/naughty behavior by players of another countries. Despite that, the supporters continue to cheer without the disturbing curse and swear which we often hear when we enter the Kallang National Stadium in Singapore. So I don't know what those 'curse and swear' supporters really want.
Overall, if you talk about hostile environment, in my opinion, Singapore's National Stadium is more hostile if I'm a foreigner supporting my country and sit in one of the designated corner of the National Stadium. I remember how everytime, the foreign supporters got harassed or cursed by the local Singapore supporters when they didn't do anything wrong. That's unsporting.
I don't see that in Korea. Supporters just sing out loud, cheer the Korea National Team throughout the match without harassing the foreign supporters in another corner holding foreign flags.
Maybe it's due to education or media's influence on the supporters, I'm not sure. But I think that if you refer the Thailand-Singapore game earlier this year as hostile environment, I don't agree
Of course the majority of the fans support the home team but they're not dangerous. Many people in Bangkok are educated and they have their own set of values and buddhist teachings they received since young. So give the Thai supporters some confidence and credits. We can't base our judgement on what the media says. And as you know, some reporters are disliked by readers....They're biased. Especially those from newspapers like The New Paper.
I have been to Thailand on many occasions and have many friends there. I think they're OK. They don't take the 1st leg's controversial penalty to heart. It's a game after all. Many supporters were unhappy during that time but after a while, they would forget it and look forward to the Asian Cup which will start today.
And please, do not classify Thailand as a places like Indonesia or England where the fans can be very too passionate to the extent that crowd trouble sometimes occur. Indonesia's domestic league games sometimes see players chasing after players or even referees, the supporters even become violent.
I'm not Thai but I feel injustice for the Thais if the media influence the people, telling them negatively about the usually friendly people.
Anyway, if you have a chance, welcome to Korea to watch an international match between Korea and another country, you'll see for yourself and know what I mean.
SumOne, have a Nice Day!!
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Hi Short Ninja, the match will start at 19:30 (7:30pm) local time in Bangkok. That means it's 21:30 (9:30pm) in Seoul/Tokyo time and 20:30 (8:30pm) in Singapore/KL time.Originally posted by Short Ninja:Any idea what time the Iraq versus Thai match (local time)? I hope its on TV here in Japan since it is an opening match.They should battle hard to beat the Iraqis today or else face a steep uphill task later.Thais would do anything to please the King and country in any sporting event and I believe their target is at least the quaterfinals and at the very best semis cuz this may be their last Birthday present for the ailing monarch.Who is the top player in Korea now and are they still using the same World Cup keeper? Here in Japan we dont have many stars except for Nakamura and World Cup players like Takahara a veteran keeper Kawaguchi and our Foreign Talent Santos & Tulio.I personally feel that if there are too many stars the skies would fall down to earth Good news is that Takahara has found his scoring touch and great news is that we will never ever see people like Suzuki or Yanagisawa wearing the blue jersey again.
I don't know about Japan's TV schedule and whether they will show. You might like to check with your TV operator. In Korea, we have live telecast over channels. And in the cable channels, we have ESPN Korea and Startsports as well. There'll be live telecast like many other Asian countries. I'll tell you more about the Korea team later. There are many changes. This team is pretty young. -
I've got a similar reply in the other thread, let's keep the replies here.
Thank you for getting the point. Singapore's two wins was not undeserving.Originally posted by Jaeyoon:Thank you for your opinion. No, I'm not belittling the competition. They deserve some credit of course. You need a bit of luck. In competitions, sometime the best team doesn't win. On many occasions, the favorites would end up defeated. People can say they're unlucky or didn't perform up to expectation or wasted their chances. Right?
No I didn't, I hope I didn't give you that impression somehow.And about your comment on [b]hostile Thai environment, I don't agree with it. I believe this is what the Singapore media's bad habit of over exagerating the situation after that 1st leg's incident. That's something a lot of foreigners always feel about the Singapore's media or government (sorry, don't mean to put politics in but it's true). They tend to portray other countries' situation as 'dangerous', 'messy', 'hostile' or something negative that affect Singaporeans' feelings about other countries. ( Nothing is good about others except Singapore.)
According to the fact at that time, from my numerous contacts in Bangkok, the Thai people were living everyday as usual. The Thai fans weren't hostile. Bangkok environment was as usual. Nothing negative or dangerous. It's the media that scared Singapore supporters and the team and play down on Thailand. Thus many supporters from Singapore canceled their trips. In fact I find Thai people very disciplined and friendly citizens. Otherwise millions of foreigners won't be visiting, living and working there every year.
In fact, when I was in the National Stadium watching the games that Singapore played in, the Singapore fans appeared to be more hostile to the away teams. They would always curse out all the local vulgar terms loudly on the away teams. Even when it's true a foul by Singapore players on the opponent players, the local fans in Singapore would just curse out those 'CB', 'referee Kayu', 'KNN', 'FCUK U' kind of words on the referees or the opponent players. How do we justify that then?
In Korea, I've watched international football games and I can assure you that I have never seen Korean supporters curse and swear out loud at opponent teams or referees like what some Singapore supporters do. Unless there is some injustice over the referee's decision or unsporting conduct/naughty behavior by players of another countries. Despite that, the supporters continue to cheer without the disturbing curse and swear which we often hear when we enter the Kallang National Stadium in Singapore. So I don't know what those 'curse and swear' supporters really want.
Overall, if you talk about hostile environment, in my opinion, Singapore's National Stadium is more hostile if I'm a foreigner supporting my country and sit in one of the designated corner of the National Stadium. I remember how everytime, the foreign supporters got harassed or cursed by the local Singapore supporters when they didn't do anything wrong. That's unsporting.
I don't see that in Korea. Supporters just sing out loud, cheer the Korea National Team throughout the match without harassing the foreign supporters in another corner holding foreign flags.
Maybe it's due to education or media's influence on the supporters, I'm not sure. But I think that if you refer the Thailand-Singapore game earlier this year as hostile environment, I don't agree Of course the majority of the fans support the home team but they're not dangerous. Many people in Bangkok are educated and they have their own set of values and buddhist teachings they received since young. So give the Thai supporters some confidence and credits. We can't base our judgement on what the media says. And as you know, some reporters are disliked by readers....They're biased. Especially those from newspapers like The New Paper.
I have been to Thailand on many occasions and have many friends there. I think they're OK. They don't take the 1st leg's controversial penalty to heart. It's a game after all. Many supporters were unhappy during that time but after a while, they would forget it and look forward to the Asian Cup which will start today. [/b][/quote]
I think my usage of the word 'hostile' was probably inappropriate. You've gone into pretty much depth over it, but by hostile, I didn't mean they were dangerous or ready to maul the Singapore players to death. I'm kind of just using the same word soccer reports tend to use, my bad I guess. No offence, but I don't mean it the way you think I do.
Yes Thais are a friendly bunch, I've experienced it first hand. Going back a bit, by hostile, what I meant was basically a charged crowd cheering in full force against their opponents. I've also mentioned how little support the Singapore team had there.
About the Singapore crowd swearing and all, I was at the match between Korea and Singapore, what do you think I saw?
But still, I'm sure you wouldn't label the Singapore crowd as hostile as that would be a pretty extreme comment in itself. Do they have a tendency to throw things onto the pitch? No doubt there is a ban on bringing bottles into stadiums, but they don't even throw coins.And please, do not classify Thailand as a places like Indonesia or England where the fans can be very too passionate to the extent that crowd trouble sometimes occur. Indonesia's domestic league games sometimes see players chasing after players or even referees, the supporters even become violent.
I do know what you mean, but just wanted to address a few of your points.I'm not Thai but I feel injustice for the Thais if the media influence the people, telling them negatively about the usually friendly people.
Anyway, if you have a chance, welcome to Korea to watch an international match between Korea and another country, you'll see for yourself and know what I mean.[quote]SumOne, have a Nice Day!!You too.
Note; I think we've gone into too much detail over the usage of the word 'hostile'. Move on? -
SumOne, I think so too.Originally posted by SumOne:Note; I think we've gone into too much detail over the usage of the word 'hostile'. Move on?
I got your meaning of hostile. Thanks for explaining.
Let's look forward to tonight's opening ceremony. Tata Young will be singing 'I Believe', Asian Cup 2007's song.
7:30pm Bangkok time, 8:30pm Singapore/Beijing time, 9:30 Seoul Time, the Thailand - Iraq game will start. I heard from my friends in Thailand that the atmosphere is great. The tickets have been sold out. Big screens are everywhere throughout Bangkok. I think it'll be so nice having some beer, nice food and watch it live even if we're not in the stadium.
So let's all watch tonight's game.
ESPN will be showing live throughout Asia.
For Short Ninja, I think you better check with your TV service provider. Japan's TV system works differently from the rest of East and Southeast Asia. -
[quote]Originally posted by Jaeyoon
So let's all watch tonight's game.
ESPN will be showing live throughout Asia.
For Short Ninja, I think you better check with your TV service provider. Japan's TV system works differently from the rest of East and Southeast Asia.
I dont have cable here and they are showing tennis at 9.30pm
So back to Sgforum where the only excitement I get is when someone says like " Oh! it hit the post again" So I am just going to rent a few DVDs and catch on the news later. -
I'll report a summary of the game later.Originally posted by Short Ninja:[quote]Originally posted by Jaeyoon
I dont have cable here and they are showing tennis at 9.30pm So back to Sgforum where the only excitement I get is when someone says like " Oh! it hit the post again" So I am just going to rent a few DVDs and catch on the news later.
Enjoy your DVDs.
Regarding Korea team's latest development, you can go to
http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/Football-Korea/
you can find a lot of reports on Korea and know many players. -
You guys enjoy, I've got no telecast at home. Won't be going out either.Originally posted by Jaeyoon:SumOne, I think so too.
I got your meaning of hostile. Thanks for explaining.
Let's look forward to tonight's opening ceremony. Tata Young will be singing 'I Believe', Asian Cup 2007's song.
7:30pm Bangkok time, 8:30pm Singapore/Beijing time, 9:30 Seoul Time, the Thailand - Iraq game will start. I heard from my friends in Thailand that the atmosphere is great. The tickets have been sold out. Big screens are everywhere throughout Bangkok. I think it'll be so nice having some beer, nice food and watch it live even if we're not in the stadium.
So let's all watch tonight's game.
ESPN will be showing live throughout Asia.
For Short Ninja, I think you better check with your TV service provider. Japan's TV system works differently from the rest of East and Southeast Asia. -
Give a short summary on each half can oreddy but if you like every 10 minutes would be nice By the way what do you guys predict.I pick Thailand to win by 1 goal in a thrilling match.Iraq used to be really good until Uday Hussein took over as sports minister,I heard he even beat a soccer player to death for playing like S-h-i-t or should I say like a Shi-ite but now he is dead and Soccer came back from the dead for Iraq.
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Thailand's new kit is still red. So what the newspaper reported is wrong. Yellow color is only their training kit.
Anyway, thanks NIKE for supporting Asian teams.
Korea, Thailand, Singapore are all under NIKE's support.
AFC Asian Cup 2007
Opening game
Thailand (Red) 1-1 (White) Iraq
Half Time 1-1
While Iraq dominated the first half, it was Thailand that scored the first goal in the 5th minute's penalty when an Iraqi defender carelessly pushed on number 13 Kiatisak 'zico' Senamuang. Sutee Suksomkit scored a nice penalty kick 5th minute.
Later, midway through the 1st half, a freekick from outside the Thai penalty box on the right resulted in a header by Iraqi star Younis Mahmud. 1-1 the score. several shots by the Iraqis were dangerous but my Man of the Match, Thai keeper, Kosin Hathairattanakool, saved all the shots. He really played well.
In the 2nd half, Thailand played with more confidence. They emerged as the side that dominated the 2nd half. Several chances could have been resulted in at least a goal by the Thai side but again, the Iraqis defended well.
Credit to both sides. Both sides share a point each.
I think Thailand can continue and will be better in the 2nd game against Oman. I have confidence in them
Iraq should be respected for their good play too. Remember, their country is war-torn. They have suffered so much. Let's hope this Iraq team can do their country proud. I wish they can perform well against Australia in the next game. -
Almost as if Thailand was lucky to clinch a draw but Iraq is a good team too so everyone is square.Thailand will get to play Australia in their last game and that could turn out to be a good consolation game however they must first beat Oman with a sounding victory
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Honors even in Asian Cup opener
Jul 7, 2007
PA Sport
BANGKOK – Co-hosts Thailand and Athens Olympic Games semi-finalists Iraq shared the points when they played out a 1-1 draw in the opening game of the AFC Asian Cup 2007 at Rajamangala Stadium on Saturday evening.
An entertaining first half saw the Thais take the lead after just six five minutes of their Group A encounter through Sutee SuksomkitÂ’s penalty only for Younis Mahmoud to pull Iraq level with a header 13 minutes before the half-time break.
The rain, which fell incessantly through the game, failed to ruin the match as a spectacle even though the second half was a more cagey affair than the opening 45 minutes.
The Thais, looking for their first-ever Asian Cup victory, took an unexpected lead after Ali Hussein Rehema nudged Kiatisuk Senamuang as he went to latch onto Datsakorn ThonglaoÂ’s flick into the penalty area, and Korean referee Kwon Jong-chul had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Sutee stepped up to sweep the ball into the corner, sending Noor Sabri in the Iraqi goal the wrong way to delight the home fans.
The goal did little to rattle the Iraqis, though, who continued to control the tempo of the game and created the better of the first-half chances.
Saleh Sadir tormented the home sideÂ’s back line and three minutes after the Thai opener his through-ball almost released Hawar Mulla Mohammed, only for the midfielder to be denied by a desperate lunge from Nataporn Phanrit.
A minute later SadirÂ’s long-range effort was pushed wide for a corner by Kosin Hathairattanakool and seconds later Jassim Mohammed Gholam headed Nashat AkramÂ’s centre wide when he should have done better.
IraqÂ’s domination continued and in the 16th minute Kosin denied another Iraqi effort from well outside the penalty area when he pushed Mahdi KarimÂ’s shot away while seconds later Karim turned provider, clipping the ball in for Sadir, whose spectacular overhead kick was turned onto the crossbar thanks to KosinÂ’s reflex save.
But the Thais could only hold out for so long, and eventually Jorvan VieiraÂ’s side hit the equaliser they deserved.
It came via Mahmoud, who had been relatively quite until the 32nd minute, but the Qatar-based striker made amends when he rose to flick SadirÂ’s free kick into the top corner of KosinÂ’s goal.
While the Iraqis had the better of the opening half, Thailand were the dominant force in the second 45 minutes, but they were unable to turn their superiority into goals.
DatsakornÂ’s long-range shot was fumbled by Sabri, only for the Iraqi goalkeeper to gather at the second attempt while, with three minutes remaining the Iran-based custodian palmed substitute Teerathep WinothaiÂ’s shot over the bar, safeguarding the point his team had earned. -
Thai Coach Chanvit pleased to share spoils
Jul 7, 2007
PA Sport
BANGKOK - Coach Chanvit Polchovin declared himself satisfied with Thailand's 1-1 draw with Iraq in the opening game of the AFC Asian Cup on Saturday.
Unrelenting rain over the Rajamangala Stadium, which included a pre-match torrential downpour that led to doubts over the game itself and the official opening ceremony, failed to put a dampener on proceedings as both teams produced a hugely entertaining first-half with play that belied the difficult underfoot conditions.
The co-hosts attacked from the start and took the lead through a controversial Sutee Suksomkit penalty in the first half but Iraq battled back and skipper Younis Mahmoud headed home just before the break.
After the re-start, Thailand had chances to snatch victory after a flurry of corners late on but Iraq held on to earn a share of the spoils.
But Chanvit felt he saw plenty of positives from his team's performance to give optimism for the rest of the Group stage.
"I am pleased with the result because the conditions of the pitch made it difficult for us to play a more fluid game,” he said.
"The difference in the second half was because we played with more intensity. In the first half we were too tense but we played better after the break.
"The one disappointing aspect of our play today was that we did play too well defensively. We lost a goal to the long ball from Iraq and it was disappointing.
"We were playing a very strong team and we made some very good chances, scoring one goal and we could have scored more. The team should be satisfied with the way they played."
Due to the adverse weather conditions, the crowd was smaller than anticipated but Chanvit was happy with the support shown by the Thai fans.
He added: "I am not disappointed with the crowd tonight because the rain made it difficult for many fans to come, I am sure that it was watched by 60 million fans on the television." -
Iraq coach Vieira regrets missed opportunities
Jul 7, 2007
PA Sport
BANGKOK - Iraq coach Jorvan Vieira felt his side had the chances to claim all three points in the opening game of the 2007 AFC Asian Cup against co-hosts Thailand.
The Middle Eastern side fell behind to a controversial penalty from Sutee Suksomkit but they battled back and equalised just after the half-hour mark through captain Younis Mahmoud to earn a 1-1 draw in their first Group A game.
With torrential rain pouring down over the Rajamangala Stadium before and during the game, conditions were difficult and both sides had to adapt their tactics.
The first half remained entertaining none-the-less but after the break the Iraqis seemed to struggle somewhat on the rain-sodden pitch.
And Vieira admitted Iraq missed the chance to make the ideal start to their Group A campaign.
"I am a little bit disappointed because I think the game could have been decided in the first half but we didn't take advantage of that,” said the Brazilian after the game.
"In the second half I think my team were finding it difficult as the pitch became heavy and we missed the chance to win.
"It was difficult today and it could be very important for the rest of the competition, but football is like this.
"I am quite satisfied, you cannot imagine the problems we have had to prepare this team."
Thailand seemed determined to attack from the onset but Iraq were a little more wary than their South East Asia counterparts.
Consequently, towards the end of the game the Thais had the chance to snatch victory following a flurry of corners.
But Vieira insisted his team had to defend as well as attack so as not to get caught on the break by the silky Thais.
"We had to attack and defend at the same time," he continued "When we play a team like Thailand, who are very fast, if we leave the players back we are going to concede more goals.
"Everybody has to work together. We have to play win in the next match." -
Yesterday July 7, 2007 Match day 1
Match #1
7/7/07 19:35 (BKK Time)
Thailand 1 - 1 Iraq
Rajamangala National Stadium, Bangkok, Thailand
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Today July 8, 2007 Match day 2
Match #2
8/7/07
17:20 (BKK Time)
Australia v Oman
Rajamangala National Stadium, Bangkok, Thailand
Match #3
19:35 (Hanoi Time)
Vietnam v UAE
My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Tomorrow July 9, 2007 Match day 3
Match #4
9/7/07 17:20 (Hanoi Time)
Japan v Qatar
My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Short Ninja, I've checked for you.
In Japan, the official channels are NHK (satellite TV) and TV Asahi (terrestrial TV). You can check. I think when Japan plays tomorrow, you can watch through Asahi TV.
In Korea, we have games telecast live in channel KBS (Free Terrestrial TV), SBS Sports(Cable), TU Media (Digital Mobile Broadcasting), Daum Internet TV and Star Sports/ESPN which is the same as those in other Asian countries. Happy Sunday -
Everytime Japan plays we get two or three TV Channels but I want to see others play tooOriginally posted by Jaeyoon:Short Ninja, I've checked for you.
In Japan, the official channels are NHK (satellite TV) and TV Asahi (terrestrial TV). You can check. I think when Japan plays tomorrow, you can watch through Asahi TV.
In Korea, we have games telecast live in channel KBS (Free Terrestrial TV), SBS Sports(Cable), TU Media (Digital Mobile Broadcasting), Daum Internet TV and Star Sports/ESPN which is the same as those in other Asian countries. Happy Sunday
Everybody is expecting Japan to win and as defending champions it would be nice to start off with 3pts & 3goals.
My prediction is Ozzies to also win by at least a 3 goal margin over Oman and the Industrious Vietnamese to give UAE a run for the money.Happy Sunday to you too. -
News from Group C
Norizan ready for daunting challenge
Jul 8, 2007
PA Sport
KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia coach Norizan Bakar feels the AFC Asian Cup co-hosts are more than ready to tackle the Group C challenge that lies in wait despite his sideÂ’s indifferent build-up to the tournament.
Malaysia lost three matches to club sides in Australia, as well as friendlies against the United Arab Emirates and Jamaica during their preparations for AsiaÂ’s premier football competition but Norizan remains convinced that the South East Asia nation will stand up and be counted in a group that also includes China, Iran and Uzbekistan.
“Football in Malaysia is not going well at the moment and it’s true that there are a lot of critics, but we are preparing well for the Asian Cup matches that are coming up.
“I don’t want to make excuses, but whilst we were playing these (friendly) matches the domestic season in Malaysia was going on, so we had players going in and out of the team all the time,” said the one-time Perlis and Penang boss ahead of his side’s opening match against the Chinese in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday.
“Now we have the full complement of players with us and everyone in the squad is aware of what is happening and they all know their responsibilities. They now need to rise to the occasion,” he added.
Whilst preferring not to reveal any Asian Cup targets the Malaysians may have set, Bakar, who also confirmed that Pahang forward and long term national team absentee Indra Putra Mahayuddin had been named in his final 23-man squad, was adamant that Malaysia were looking forward to showing the rest of Asia just what they were capable of.
“We need to perform very well, we need to be at our very best. I hope the Malaysian fans will back us no matter what happens on the pitch.
“Now is the time for Malaysian football to show what level we are at. We are honoured to be one of the hosts and the spirit in the camp is okay. We now just want to do our best in this tournament.” -
News from Group B
Collective work key to Qatar success - Yaser
Jul 8, 2007
PA Sport
HANOI – Qatar playmaker Hussein Yaser believes that his side’s strong teamwork and their maturity will be the key to success in their AFC Asian Cup 2007 Group B opener against defending champions Japan at My Dinh National Stadium on Monday.
“We have been preparing for a long time as a team and everybody is reaching his top performance now,” said Yaser following his team’s training session at match venue on Saturday.
“There’s no easy game but anything can happen. Each game is played 11 versus 11 and each game is different.
“Football is not an individual game. It’s a collective work and that will be a key point. Working as a team means everybody works hard and they achieve more.
“People talk about luck, but a team that works hard can earn their luck.”
While Yaser, who had a six-month spell with English Premiership side Manchester City, has a great deal of respect for Japan , he is by no means daunted by the task of taking the defending champions in their opening game of the tournament.
“Everybody knows Japan won the last tournament and the one before and their football has improved over the last 10 years. But we also have established a very good league in Qatar over the last five years,” said the Al Rayyan player.
“I hope we can make a big game against Japan. I think they want to win and we want to win.
“The game will be decided in the field. We are a small country but we are very ambitious about this competition.
Yaser believes that the Qatari players have grown in confidence since winning the gold medal at the Asian Games in December.
“We won the Asian Games in Doha and won big games like against Iran in the semi-finals, which is also a big team in Asia.
“That helped the team in terms of confidence. We are a young team with an average age between 20 and 25 and we are merging together now with some experienced players.”
Having struggled at the Gulf Cup in January, Yaser feels that he and his more senior Qatari team mates have much to prove at the Asian Cup.
“The Asian Cup brings all the big teams in Asia and each player is happy to participate in this tournament,” he said.
“Everybody knows that football in Qatar is changing. In this tournament, we hope we can show that Qatar can compete at a higher level.” -
News from Group B
ACL experience works to Suzuki's benefit
Jul 8, 2007
PA Sport
HANOI – Japan and Urawa Reds midfielder Keita Suzuki is hoping to take advantage of his experience of playing in the AFC Champions League when the defending champions take on Qatar on Monday in their AFC Asian Cup 2007 Group B opener in Hanoi.
“Playing in the ACL has been a plus to me,” said Suzuki, “I had a tough game away in Sydney [against Sydney FC] and also played in Indonesia [against Persik Kediri]. Everything has being helping me.”
Suzuki, who celebrated his 26th birthday on Sunday, helped the J. League club to book their place in the quarter-finals of the annual club competition and is now hoping to make his mark in his first appearance in the Asian Cup, having narrowly missed out on JapanÂ’s 2004 Olympic squad.
“I have been looking forward to this tournament very much,” said Suzuki, following Japan’s official training session at My Dinh Stadium on Saturday.
“It was disappointing when I was not picked for the Olympics. But I set my target at the World Cup and have worked hard, telling myself that I would have another chance, which, I suppose, has helped me to get here.”
The Reds midfielder has earned 10 senior caps so far and is the only player to have in all of JapanÂ’s games since Ivica Osim took the helm a year ago, making his debut on August 9 in a friendly against Trinidad and Tobago in Tokyo.
Asked about the aspect of his game that has won him a place in the team, Suzuki replied with a smile, “Hard working”, and added that that it would be a factor that would helps his side to get good results in the tournament.
“Hard work is important in any competition. The players who have a strong mentality can perform well even in tough conditions in the game, and that would apply to the players of Brazil, Italy or France, any team. I believe I can do that.
“Qatar have a good counter attack and individual skills as well as collective play. We should use our brain to take the initiative of the game.
“The game is not for individuals. We play as a unit and that I think is the strong point of Japan game. I’d like to play well for our team and win the game,” he added. -
News from Group A
Arnold: First game may be toughest
Jul 8, 2007
PA Sport
BANGKOK - Coach Graham Arnold admits AustrliaÂ’s first-ever game in the AFC Asian Cup could prove to be their most testing of the entire tournament.
The Socceroos mark their debut in the competition on Sunday when they meet Gulf side Oman, representing the first time in history the two sides have clashed.
After an impressive run in the 2006 World Cup, ArnoldÂ’s side have unsurprisingly been installed as one of the favourites to win the trophy at the first attempt.
But the 43-year-old admits OmanÂ’s unpredictability, coupled with the pressure of the opening game, will provide a tough test of AustraliaÂ’s capabilities.
Asked what he thought Oman‘s main strengths are, Arnold said: “Their athleticism and their unpredictably.
“They can do some crazy things and some great things and they are probably the hardest type of teams to play against.
“The first game of any competition is always one of the hardest, there is a lot of adrenaline going through the players but we are confident in our own ability.”
With a squad packed full of high-profile players from across the European leagues, many are expecting Australia to at the very least make it to the final of the Asian Cup.
A number of the players and Arnold himself have been quoted in the build up to the tournament as wanting to make it all the way to final in Jakarta on July 29.
But Arnold insisted that kind of confidence is necessary if Australia are to enjoy a successful run in the competition.
“It is definitely not arrogance, it is confidence,” he added.. “If you come here and don’t have a goal to be successful then you are probably coming here for the wrong reasons.
“It is a huge step coming here and playing here. It is a massive competition, there is a lot of prestige which goes with the Asian Cup and it is watched by millions of people.
“We have come off the back of a World Cup where we performed well and because we were ranked number one that is where the favouritism tag comes from.
“I have a huge amount of belief in my players.”
For SundayÂ’s game, Arnold has the luxury of a fully fit squad to pick from and hinted Liverpool star Harry Kewell could earn a place in the starting 11 after returning from a long spell out through injury.
“Harry is up for contention, he is looking great,” he said. “He trained extremely well yesterday, but I won’t reveal the starting 11 until I tell the players.
“They deserve that respect but definitely all 23 players are up for selection.” -
Group B News
Japan down locals in warm-up
Jul 7, 2007
PA Sport
HANOI – Japan warmed-up for Monday’s AFC Asian Cup Group B opener against Qatar with a 3-0 victory over local first division club Vietnam Army Club on Friday.
In the first match following their arrival in Hanoi on Wednesday, defender Yuji Nakazawa headed home shortly before the break and midfielder Yasuhito Endo and striker Kisho Yano struck in the closing stages to seal the win in the game played next to the My Dinh Stadium where MondayÂ’s meeting with the Asian Games gold medalists will take place.
Japan coach Ivica Osim used the match to hand all 23 players playing time in the high temperatures and humidity of Hanoi, with many showing effects of the J.League campaign which finished only seven days ago.
“I had 45 minutes to play and found it was tiring,” said defender Yuichi Komano, a member of Japan’s 2004 Olympic and 2006 FIFA World Cup squads. “But it was good to check what it would be like to play here in such conditions like this.”
Japan goalkeeper Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi added: “The heat and humidity are more than what I expected. But we can get used to it and don’t have to be nervous about the game conditions.
“Many of us have experienced playing in worse conditions than this. We should adjust our physical fitness well first to get ready for our first match.”
Osim earlier said that he will form a team around the players who are capable of playing in the heat and high humidity.
“I just told our players to take this [training game] seriously so that they can see how much they can do under the circumstances in a different type of climate,” he said. “Some players ran well and some didn’t. We’ll just have to take our games in the condition given to us.” -
Group A news
Super sub Cahill rescues subdued Socceroos
Jul 8, 2007
PA Sport
BANGKOK – Oman were denied the first shock of the AFC Asian Cup 2007 when substitute Tim Cahill scored an injury-time equaliser as pre-tournament favourites Australia drew 1-1 with the Gulf Sultanate at the Rajamangala Stadium on Sunday.
The result mirrored SaturdayÂ’s result between Group A hosts Thailand and Iraq, leaving all four teams level on points and goal difference after the first round of matches.
Badar Mubarak looked to be the hero for Oman when he opened the scoring in the 32nd minute and just as it was looking as though AustraliaÂ’s competition debut would end in defeat, the Everton midfielder continued his knack of scoring vital goals for his country when he levelled the tie right at the death.
It was rough justice on the lively Omanis but the four minutes of injury time were always a possibility as their frustrating time-wasting tactics came back to haunt them.
The opening 10 minutes of the match was a scrappy affair with neither side creating any clear cut chances until Ismail Ali, OmanÂ’s top scorer in qualifying with four goals, headed Yousuf ShaÂ’banÂ’s corner over the bar.
Oman again came close to breaking the deadlock five minutes later when ShaÂ’ban dived into the six-yard box in a desperate attempt to get his head on the end of an Ahmed Hadid free-kick swung in from the left.
The Socceroos seemed to be labouring in the Bangkok humidity and shortly after Brett Emerton had become the first player to enter Seychellois referee Eddy MailletÂ’s book Australia mustered their clearest effort at goal.
Harry Kewell, who had earlier attempted to win a penalty by falling to the ground under minimal contact from defender Hassan Yousuf Madhafar, was perfectly placed in the apex of the six-yard-box to hammer home Luke WilkshireÂ’s 20th minute free-kick but the injury-prone Liverpool attacker took his eye off the ball and knocked it across goal instead of into the back of the net.
The Gulf side, playing in only their second Asian Cup finals, took the lead in the 32nd minute when Imad Ali picked up possession on the left side deep into Austrailian territory.
The Qatar Sports Club forward, who scored three times in OmanÂ’s debut Asian Cup campaign, tried to set up Ismail Al Ajmi but while he failed to connect with pass the ball landed fortuitously into the path of Badar Mubarak whose low shot had too much purchase for Mark Schwarzer to keep out.
Australia had the chance to hit back immediately but recently-signed Newcastle United striker Mark Viduka swept a free-kick high and wide before Oman goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi was out sharply to deny Mark Bresciano, after the Torino midfielder had superbly controlled the ball to set up the 41st minute chance.
Three minutes after the restart Oman almost doubled their lead when Ahmed Mubarak cleverly created space for a low shot from just outside the area, but Schwarzer got down well to push the ball to safety.
The Middlesbrough keeper again came to his sideÂ’s rescue in the 70th minute with a timely one-handed save from Imad AliÂ’s header following a move that started with Oman keeper Ali Al Habsi punching clear a Wilkshire corner.
With 13 minutes left to play Schwarzer was again the saviour for Australia with a smart block from Fawzi Basheer, although the midfield dynamo, who came on for goal scorer Badar Mubarak on the hour mark, should have put the game beyond any doubt.
Oman were punished for the profligacy and their numerous unnecessary injury stoppages when Cahill fired home the rebound after Al Habsi could only parry BrescianoÂ’s shot back to the feet of the former Samoa youth international, who was only cleared to play for Australia in 2004. -
Co-hosts Vietnam shock Gulf Cup holders
Jul 8, 2007
PA Sport
HANOI - Vietnam opened their AFC Asian Cup campaign with a thrilling 2-0 victory over the United Arab Emirates as second half goals from Huynh Quang Thanh and Le Cong Vinh ensured a surprise triumph over the Gulf Cup champions on Sunday.
The UAE had the better of the scoring opportunities in the first half with lively strike duo Faisal Khalil and Ismail Matar posing a constant threat to the co-hosts.
But after the UAE failed to take their chances, Alfred RiedlÂ’s side took the lead just after the hour mark through Quang Thanh before 21-year-old Cong Vinh wrapped up the win to blow Group B, which also contains defending champions Japan and Qatar, wide open.
The UAE threatened in the closing stages, but failed to really trouble home goalkeeper Hong Son Duong as Vietnam claimed a historic victory.
The game began at a frantic pace in an electric atmosphere created by a near sell-out crowd at the My Dinh National Stadium, but neither side created a real opening with KhalilÂ’s early shot, which was blocked on the edge of the area, the only real threat inside the opening 15 minutes.
Vietnam came within inches of opening the scoring with 16 minutes on the watch as Quang ThanhÂ’s teasing free-kick from the right was flicked the wrong side of the upright by Dong Thap striker Phan Thanh Binh, while at the other end Matar curled a free-kick from the edge of the area just wide of the post.
Song Lam Nghe An custodian Son Duong kept the scores level after 30 minutes with a full length diving save after Khalil had broke into the area and looked to find the bottom corner with a low shot.
The home side came out of the blocks firing at the start of the second half and it took a diving save from UAE goalkeeper Majed Naser to deny Nguyen Vu PhongÂ’s stinging low shot from the edge of the area before the custodian quickly regained his feat to comfortably save Binh PhanÂ’s follow-up shot.
A flying Matar was felled on the edge of the area before the hour mark and after penalty appeals were waved away, the Al Wahda striker chipped the resulting free-kick over the bar.
Vietnam delighted the passionate home crowd four minutes after the hour mark as Quang Thanh pounced on Nguyen Minh PhuongÂ’s chipped pass into the area and gave a helpless Naser no chance from close range.
The home side almost doubled the lead a minute later as Naser did well to parry Thanh BinhÂ’s powerful close range strike and Vu Phuong scooped the rebound over the bar.
The crucial second goal came with 17 minutes remaining as Cong Vinh beat the UAE offside trap to lob Vu PhongÂ’s lofted pass over an advancing Naser from the edge of the area. -
Yesterday July 8, 2007 Match day 2
Match #2
8/7/07
17:20 (BKK Time)
Australia 1-1 Oman
Rajamangala National Stadium, Bangkok, Thailand
Match #3
19:35 (Hanoi Time)
Vietnam 2-0 UAE
My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Today July 9, 2007 Match day 3
9/7/07 Match #4
17:20 (Hanoi Time)
Japan v Qatar
My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Tomorrow July 10, 2007 Match day 4
Match #5
10/7/07
17:20 (JKT Time)
Indonesia v Bahrain
Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, Indonesia
Match #6
20:35 (KL Time)
Malaysia v China
National Stadium Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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