Uzbekistan vs. Thailand (Tuesday, 11.30am)
© Reuters
Thailand can reach the Asian Cup quarter-finals for the first time with a victory over Uzbekistan on Tuesday at Al Janoub Stadium Park.
A 1-1 draw versus Australia was enough for the White Wolves to finish second in Group B, while the War Elephants played to a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia, finishing second behind them in Group F.
We say: Uzbekistan 1-0 Thailand (extra time)
Given how sharp they were defensively in the group stage, we believe Thailand will allow Uzbekistan to be the aggressors in this match, and while the War Elephants have been well-organised and shown they can handle the pressure, we expect the depth of the White Wolves to eventually break through.
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Saudi Arabia vs. South Korea (Tuesday, 4.00pm)
© Reuters
For the first time since 2000, Saudi Arabia and South Korea will meet in the Asian Cup knockout stage, with their round of 16 fixture taking place on Tuesday at Education City Stadium.
The Green Falcons topped Group F with a 0-0 draw versus Thailand, while Korea wound up second in Group E after a wild 3-3 draw with Malaysia.
We say: Saudi Arabia 1-1 South Korea (Saudi Arabia advances on penalties)
These are two sides with contrasting styles of play, and we believe the Saudi defensive shape could frustrate the South Koreans, and that frustration alone may be enough to give the Green Falcons a psychological edge when it may be needed most.
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Oliver Thomas
