AFC U17 Asian Cup
The first of only two matches for them, it will not be lost on either team that a win could potentially be enough to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
DPR Korea’s withdrawal left Group D as the only three-team group in the tournament, making any win pivotal in the quest to reach the knockout stage.
DPR Korea’s withdrawal left Group D as the only three-team group in the tournament, making any win pivotal in the quest to reach the knockout stage.
Three-time semi-finalists Australia breezed through the Qualifiers, winning three matches and drawing the other to finish top of Group E with 10 points.
Thomas Veart has a clear target for the Joeys - to reach the quarter-finals - with the Australian tactician having full faith that his players will rise to the occasion.
Thomas Veart has a clear target for the Joeys - to reach the quarter-finals - with the Australian tactician having full faith that his players will rise to the occasion.
#AFCU17 - Preview: Group Stage
“As a group we’ve been clear about our ambition, which is to perform strongly at this Asian Cup and to put ourselves in a position to qualify for the World Cup,” said Veart.
“Our focus is on what is immediately in front of us and we know what we’re capable of when we play to our potential. The players have been outstanding in their application and commitment to both our playing style and our off-field standards.
“Competing in an Asian Cup, with World Cup qualification on the line, is exactly the type of exposure that helps prepare players for the demands of international football.”
“Our focus is on what is immediately in front of us and we know what we’re capable of when we play to our potential. The players have been outstanding in their application and commitment to both our playing style and our off-field standards.
“Competing in an Asian Cup, with World Cup qualification on the line, is exactly the type of exposure that helps prepare players for the demands of international football.”
Likewise, India will be entering the tournament in a confident mood having qualified for their fourth successive Finals appearance as the Group D winners in the Qualifiers.
Bibiano Fernandes’ side bested one of Asia’s powerhouses Islamic Republic of Iran to qualify with their 2-1 win against the Central Asian giants showing the quality the South Asian side possess and they will fancy their chances against Australia.
Bibiano Fernandes’ side bested one of Asia’s powerhouses Islamic Republic of Iran to qualify with their 2-1 win against the Central Asian giants showing the quality the South Asian side possess and they will fancy their chances against Australia.
Australia v India
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Pitch C Future (Jeddah)
Kick-off: Wednesday, 19:00 (UTC+3)
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Pitch C Future (Jeddah)
Kick-off: Wednesday, 19:00 (UTC+3)
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