Socceroos to meet Japan in the final of Asian cup

The coronation of Asian football Championship is to be held on Saturday at the Khalifa Stadium in Doha between the top ranked sides of the continent-Australia and Japan.Both the teams had made their way to the final by keeping up the expectations on them.Japan beat their East Asian rivals South Korea in the first semi-final held on Tuesday in shootout(3-0) after a closely fought full time(1-1) and extra time(2-2).In the second semis Australia trashed the surprise entrants Uzbekistan(6-0) to reach the final for the first time in history on the same day.

The tournament which showcased excellent football had witnessed many upsets and surprise packages.The early exit of powerhouse Saudi Arabia and Gulf cup winners Kuwait was unbelievable by the way they were defeated.Central Asian surprise package Uzbekistan had played excellent game and reached the semi-final for the first time.Jordan and Syria rose as the new powers of East Asia while favorites failed to make their way.Defending champions Iraq and Iran moved to quarter beautifully but failed to make a seat in the semis. S.Korea,japan and Australia along with host Qatar also played according to expectations. Minnows India played excellently amid their low standard against the giant opponents in group-C. All those who were present at the venue ensured they had a bright future ahead.

The final is going to be a super clash.Australia,with their golden generation is all set to lift their maiden title in their second attempt after joining AFC, while Japan is looking for their 4th continental title.Socceroos had a good campaign in the competition beating India(4-0) and Bahrain(1-0) in the group stage and drawing with S.Korea(1-1).In quarter they ended the Iraqi dreams of defending their title(1-0) in a closely fought match and trashed Uzbekistan in the semis(6-0). Japan had a comeback after managing a draw against Jordan in the first match(1-1) by defeating Syria(2-1) and Saudi(5-0) in the group stage and ending Qatari dreams of their first semi-final in quarters(3-2) and then a shootout victory over S.Korea in semi-final(2-2)(3-0:SO). Both teams are capable of winning the title with their best line-up. So,it is going to be a match with all the beauty of football. And a title of history for both teams.