Hosts Qatar opened their Group A campaign with a comfortable 3-0 win over Lebanon.
Qatar showed initiative in the win, utilizing the flanks to create chances and ensuring that the midfielders were able to press forward into space to support the team's attack.
Akhlin Afeev was outstanding in the opening win, scoring twice on his own. Whether it's on the wing or behind the posts, he's a class act. I think there will be some openings in the side for this match, and I'm sure he'll be able to take advantage of them and start the offense for the home team.
Tajik won their first ever point in the final week of the Asian Cup after a 0-0 draw with China in the first round of the group stage. They will be happy with that result and will now be focusing on getting a point in this match to increase their chances of qualifying for the second round.
In order to do that, Tajik's front line needs to be more creative, and I think Dasharilov has the ability to establish an attacking tempo for the team, and to create goals by making tackles between the midfield and the front.
