Agencies
Doha
The AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 is now into the final matchday of the group stage as several teams are still chasing a Round of 16 spot.
A spectacular edition of the continental showpiece continues to deliver special moments, late goals and unexpected twists much to the delight of followers of Asian football.
Historic celebrations, fun inside the camp and a duo celebrating their 100th international caps all feature as the-AFC.com takes a look at the social media channels of those involved.
Tajikistan – Debutants rejoice in glory
The 2023 edition’s only debutants, Tajikistan, went into their final group game against Lebanon with just one point and no goals scored but knew that a win could well send them through to the Round of 16.
With hosts Qatar beating China PR in the other group game, the Tajiks came from behind with an inch-perfect free-kick from Parvizdzhon Umarbayev and a superb 92nd-minute header from substitute Nuriddin Khamrokulov helping them win 2-1. Head coach Petar Segrt led the celebrations inside the team bus on their way to the hotel from Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Thailand – Centurion Theerathon
The Thailand national team held Oman to a hard-fought goalless draw on Matchday Two, boosting their hopes of reaching the Round of 16 for a second successive edition.
Following the conclusion of the match, the War Elephants boss Masatada Ishii presented their captain Theerathon Bunmathan with a special 100 jersey, as the 33-year-old became the sixth Thai player to reach the milestone.
IR Iran – Ansarifard reaches 100
Elsewhere, the Islamic Republic of Iran national team had their very own centurion with Karim Ansarifard’s personal milestone celebrated by the team members and the coaching staff at the training ground.
The 33-year-old forward scored Team Melli’s first goal of the tournament in a 4-1 victory against Palestine before another win against Hong Kong, China sealed their spot in the Round of 16. They then finished as table-toppers by beating the United Arab Emirates 3-1.
Australia –Fornaroli shows off his skills
The 2015 champions Australia picked up wins against India and Syria to confirm their progression to the next round before a draw with Uzbekistan sealed top spot.
And their competitive spirit has been seen off the pitch, too, as Bruno Fornaroli and Lewis Miller entertained their Socceroos teammates on the table tennis table, with the former prevailing.
India – With the fans, for the fans
The Blue Tigers welcomed Indian supporters to attend their training session ahead of their crucial Group B clash against Syria, with head coach Igor Stimac interacting with the loyal fanbase while Sunil Chhetri clicked selfies.
India has a large expat population in the Gulf region, with Qatar being home to many as they have turned up in volume in their three matches. Sadly for them, India’s elimination was confirmed after a narrow 1-0 loss to the Syrians on Tuesday.
Indonesia – High-profile message of inspiration
Team Garuda were boosted ahead of their clash with ASEAN rivals Vietnam with PSSI chairman Erick Thohir delivering a video message to the squad urging them to give their all on the pitch.
Indonesia certainly delivered with captain Asnawi Mangkualam converting the decisive penalty which handed them a vital three points and their first victory over the Vietnamese in seven attempts.
