Doha: Group A’s bottom-placed side Qatar welcome Korea Republic, currently occupying second spot, to the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium on Tuesday, knowing that anything but the three points will confirm their elimination.
A disappointing 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign sees Jorge Fossati’s men bringing up the rear after losing five of their seven matches so far although, mathematically, Qatar can still secure third spot and qualify for the fourth round. However, even a win on Tuesday will not be enough if Uzbekistan avoid defeat against Islamic Republic of Iran in Tehran.
As for Uli Stielike’s Korea Republic, a win in Doha should strengthen their hopes of direct qualification to Russia. The Taeguk Warriors suffered a jolt after an away defeat to China in March before getting back on track with a win over Syria, courtesy of Hong Jeong-ho’s early strike. The visitors have Qatar based duo Nam Tae-hee and Han Kook-young in their squad, while coach Stielike is also familiar with the Gulf emirate having worked there previously.
On the other side, Qatar’s Uruguayan boss Fossati has recalled left back Abdelkarim Hassan to the Qatar camp and the Al Sadd player went on to score in a 2-2 friendly draw with DPR Korea last week.
The Maroons will be without suspended star striker Sebastian Soria, while Korea welcomes back Ji Dong-won from suspension.
Photo: Lagardère Sports
Source: the-afc.com