Kuwait will head into the tie still wondering how they let victory against Palestine slip away in their Matchday Four encounter, having had to settle for a share of the points after having taken the lead. 

Having also settled for draws against Jordan (1-1) and Iraq (0-0), head coach Juan Antonio Pizzi’s side need to start winning if they are to stand a chance of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for only the second time in their history. 

Korea Republic, on the other hand, are enjoying a smooth qualifying campaign as they lead the standings with 10 points.  

Hong Myung-bo’s side have grown in strength since their opening day draw with Palestine, registering wins against Oman, Jordan and Iraq and victories against Kuwait on Thursday and Palestine five days later will take them within touching distance of the Finals.

"I think these will be extremely tough matches. I can absolutely say these matches will be even more important than the ones we played in October," said head coach Hong.

Oh Se-hun, Oh Hyeon-gyu, and Lee Jae-sung impressed with goals against Iraq in the absence of captain Son Heung-min, who will return to the fold as Korea Republic aim for a fourth consecutive win.

Kuwait v Korea Republic
Venue: Jaber Al Ahmad International Stadium (Ardhiyah)
Kick-off: Thursday, 17:00 (UTC+3)