The two-time champions, who were also runners-up three times in 15 appearances, now face an unfamiliar landscape as they look to qualify for the knockout stage and earn a place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup for a ninth time.

Back, however, is keeping his chin up and focused on rectifying his team’s weak points. 

“We still have two more games, and I’ll do my best to keep the players motivated and in good spirits,” said the 46-year-old.

“Based on our match against Indonesia alone, I think we need to improve our precision, composure and finishing ability in the final third.”

Afghanistan wrapped up their Qualifiers with four wins but failed to find their way back against Yemen on Matchday One after conceding two goals early in the first half. 

Head coach Elias Manuocher can empathise with his opposing counterpart.

“There are losses and wins in the game,” he said. “Korea Republic are a great team and they lost, and we are a great team but we also lost.”

This is the third consecutive Finals for the Central Asians in three appearances, and Manuocher knows there is more work to be done if they aspire to go past the group stage for the first time. 

“We will work on the weak aspects, fix them and up our game. This is the first time we’re playing Korea Republic and we don’t want to leave anything to chance.”

King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium (Jeddah)

Kick-off: Monday, 20:15 (UTC + 3)