Arquivo diário: dezembro 2, 2017

12.02.17
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Enticing FIFA World Cup 2018 draw for Asia’s best

Moscow: Having sealed an historic five berths at the FIFA World Cup 2018, Asia’s top teams discovered who their opponents will be in Russia following the draw at Moscow’s State Kremlin Palace on Friday.

The Islamic Republic of Iran, Asia’s top ranked side, were drawn in Group B alongside Portugal, Spain and Morocco, while Japan will have Poland, Senegala and Colombia for company in Group H.

Korea Republic, who are set to feature in a ninth consecutive World Cup and 10th overall, will face off against Germany, Mexico and Sweden in Group F.

Saudi Arabia, making a comeback to the World Cup after last featuring in 2006, have Russia, Egypt and Uruguay as their opponents in Group A. They will play the Russians in the competition’s opening game on June 14.

Australia, who sealed qualification after coming through two gruelling play-offs, are in Group C with France, Peru and Denmark.

Asia’s five representatives will be aiming to achieve the Continent’s best showing in the FIFA World Cup after a successful qualifying campaign.

  • Korea Republic’s semi-final appearance at the FIFA World Cup 2002, co-hosted by Korea Republic and Japan, is the best showing by a team from Asia.
  • Iran, meanwhile, are aiming to advance past the group stage in Russia next year – having seen their interest end at that stage previously.
  • Japan have twice progressed from the group stages, reaching the Round of 16 in 2002 and in 2010.
  • Saudi Arabia’s best finish in a FIFA World Cup was in 1994 when they made the Round of 16.
  • Australia, who will be making their fifth Finals appearance, will be aiming to improve on their best finish which was a Round of 16 appearance at Germany 2006.

The FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 will run from June 14 to July 15.

Photos: FIFA.com, AFP

 

Source  :  Asian Football Confederation Website