Qatar have no plans to take foot off the gas in China clash

Qatar midfielder Ahmed Fathy says the 2023 Asian Cup hosts have no intention of letting up in their final group game against China today having already qualified for the knockout stages.

The defending champions were the first team to book their place in the last 16 following wins over Lebanon and Tajikistan, and round off their Group A games against winless China.

“After winning against Tajikistan we guaranteed our qualification and we lead the group,” Fathy, 30, said.

“However, after that game we vowed as players that we still have one game to play against China and we want to win.

“In such competitions, if you relax after qualifying it’s going to affect your performance, [it’s important] to continue the winning mentality in the next phase.

“Every player has put in a great performance mentally and it’s our goal to enter the knockout stage with nine points, with the best level possible.”

Qatar will be favourites against a China side yet to win, or even score, in the tournament having secured goalless draws in their previous two games. However,

A win and China go through to the last 16, a draw could be enough to seal one of the best third-place finishes

Fathy, who has played a key role in both Qatar’s victories, insists they will not be taking their opponents lightly.

“We know the China team is entering the game to qualify,” he said. “This is their main purpose and this is why we say it will be a difficult game, but we’ll be playing for the win regardless of who is playing against us.”

A victory for China will guarantee their place in the last 16, although a draw could still be enough for them to claim one of the four places available to the best thirdplaced finishers. Defender Wang Shangyuan said he is aware of the challenge that awaits China against Qatar but has backed his team to advance from the group.

“Now the scenario is quite clear,” said the Henan FC defender. “Qatar have already qualified from the group stage and we still have the chance in our hands. The players will keep following the tactics of the coach and do our best against Qatar to win the points and go to the next stage.”

Meanwhile, Thailand inched closer to the last 16, holding an industrious but blunt Oman to a 0-0 draw yesterday. Thailand have four points from two games, while Oman have just one ahead of their final game against Kyrgyzstan.