Whilst AFC Asian Cup debutants Tajikistan stunningly qualified for the last 16 in their debut in the completion, in their match, hosts, Qatar, moved on relentlessly after beating a much-fancied China in the final round of the opening group stages.

Japan's shock defeat to Iraq and South Korea's late draw with Jordan make it harder than ever to predict who will lift the Asian Cup as the group stage approaches its climax.

Japan were favourites heading into the tournament to win a record-extending fifth title, while Son Heung-min's South Korea were touted as their chief challengers. But after early results in the group stage in Qatar generally went as expected, there was a major upset when Iraq defeated a strangely muted Japan 2-1.

If Japan, South Korea or Australia are to win the Asian Cup in Qatar they will have to do it the hard way in the face of hostile crowds roaring on their rivals from the Middle East.

The African Cup of Nations continued as Group D. took more of a shape as Baghdad Bounedjah's 95th-minute equaliser salvaged a second point for Algeria with a draw against Burkina Faso, whilst Gelson Dala scored twice as Angola beat Mauritania to close in on the last 16.

South Africa stamped their authority over a lack-lustre Namibia in Group E. as Themba Zwane scored twice in 16 first-half minutes to earn their first points of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), whilst, in Group F. both games ended in 1-1 draws, to leave much to play for there.

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