YOUR GUIDE TO THE ASIAN CUP FINAL

WHAT: Australia v Japan, Amman International Stadium, Jordan, 3am (AEST) tomorrow.

AUSTRALIA — Coach: Alen Stajcic. Captains: Clare Polkinghorne and Lisa De Vanna. Ranking: World No.6. Star: Sam Kerr. Australia’s lethal frontwoman can be the difference against the Japanese, as she proved in the Tournament of Nations last year with a hat-trick. Has three goals already in this tournament.

JAPAN — Coach: Asako Takakura. Captain: Saki Kumagai. Ranking: World No.11. Star: Mizuho Sakaguchi. The veteran midfielder’s experience and poise told in the group stage against Australia when she netted the opening goal to put the Matildas on the rack. Will be influential again in the final.

PREDICTION: Australia 2-1 (after extra time). On semi-final form, it’s hard to go past the Japanese, who brushed aside China 3-1 as Australia struggled past Thailand on penalties, but coach Alen Stajcic will refresh and energise his side for the final.