This Friday is the opening game of the tournament that has been historically very hard to handicap. Qatar are the defending champions and the hosts this time around. Realistically only 6 nations have a chance of winning; Japan, Qatar, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Iran and South Korea. Back in 2019 I called 3 of the 4 final four correct. Unlike the African cup of nations this tournament is usually high scoring averaging 2.77 goals per game going back to the previous 5. It also has low attendance due to the vast geographical distance between the nations involved. I like one future bet and I'm backing Korea to win for the first time since 1960. I'm not a big fan of Klinsmann the manager but the Koreans have a very strong side. They managed to finish in the final four 4 of the past 5 times and I think this year will be the time they finally hoist the cup. Japan the favourites will miss arguably their best player injured Kaoru Mitoma who none the less has been named to the squad but I don't see him making an appearance unless Japan goes deep into the K/O rounds.
1. South Korea to win Asian Cup @ 5.50/+450 (1u) Bet365
The last 3 head to head meetings between these sides Australia won 2 by 1 goal and one game ended level. I was impressed by Syria's result versus Uzbekistan & not so impressed by the Aussies beating India in a lack luster performance. Syria will park the bus knowing hey have a beatable opponent in India their last game and the Australia after winning their opener wont so desperate. Australia are the better side but I expect a tight game.
I was ready to pull the trigger on backing the Uzbeks here and was shocked how the books disrespected India here. Uzbekistan looked like trash versus Syria And India managed not to get smoked by the Aussies losing only 2-0. Thinking a low scoring win for Uzbekistan in this game.
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