There are times when the world seems to be more equitable than those who inhabit it -- times when a confluence of events make a statement that is more eloquent than anything a mere mortal could say. Last night was one of those times.
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After Japan advanced to the final of the Asian Cup, with a comprehensive victory over Iran, one might expect the football press to show a bit more interest in, and appreciation of the Samurai Blue. That is . . . if one is new to the region, and hasnt seen how the AFC traditionally operates. For those who are still scratching their heads, here are a few pointers.
An all-reserve Samurai Blue put on a very solid showing against Uzbekistan on Thursday, claiming victory thanks to the contributions of an Al-Ain "local favourite".
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There are times when the world seems to be more equitable than those who inhabit it -- times when a confluence of events make a statement that is more eloquent than anything a mere mortal could say. Last night was one of those times.
Read more: Japan-Iran 190128
Japan punched their ticket to the Asian Cup knockout round, but in underwhelming fashion. Though they did control the game almost completely, failure to find the net shows that the team is still having trouble getting into gear.
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Japan progressed to the quarterfinals of the 2019 Asian Cup, following a deserved though narrow victory over Saudi Arabia. The only "stars" of the contest, though, were the AFC standup comedy officiating team.
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Japan recorded their first victory of the 2019 Asian Cup, though certainly not in stellar fashion. It is easy to identify the weaknesses, but in a tournament that often troubles more fancied participants, the Samurai Blue at least managed to get the job done.
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