1. Japan vs Indonesia
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Japan, despite suffering a shock 1-0 loss to Australia in Round 9 (their first defeat in the 18-team stage), had already secured World Cup qualification weeks prior. Manager Hajime Moriyasu is expected to rotate heavily, giving minutes to U-23 talents like Takefusa Kubo’s backups or rising defenders.
Indonesia, riding a historic 1-0 win over China (ending a 68-year unbeaten streak against the Dragons), locked a playoff berth with 12 points
2. China vs Bahrain
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China’s World Cup dream ended in Round 9 with a 0-1 loss to Indonesia, extending their winless streak to 4 games and sealing a sixth-place finish in Group C (2 wins, 7 losses, 6 goals scored, 20 conceded). Bahrain, also eliminated with 6 points, faces a similarly dispirited opponent.
With nothing to play for, both coaches may field youth teams. China’s 18-year-old Wang Yudong, who impressed in the Indonesia loss, could start again. Bahrain might test new attacking combinations. Historically, China holds a 6-2-0 edge, but recent form suggests a low-stakes, cagey draw.
3. Kyrgyzstan vs UAE
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Kyrgyzstan was eliminated in Round 9 (1 win, 2 draws, 6 losses), leaving them with no incentive beyond pride. The UAE, however, needs a win to secure 3rd place in Group A (and a playoff berth). They trail Qatar by 1 point in the race for the group’s second playoff spot (Group A’s 3rd and 4th face other groups’ 3rd/4th in the next playoff round).
4. Uzbekistan vs Qatar
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Uzbekistan made history in Round 9, securing their first World Cup berth with a 0-0 draw vs UAE. Now, they play for group pride (currently 2nd, 18 points). Manager Srečko Katanec may rest stars like Eldor Shomurodov, giving youngsters minutes.
Qatar, the 2022 World Cup hosts, needs a result to lock 4th place in Group A (and a playoff spot). Trailing the UAE by 1 point, they’ll lean on Akram Afif’s creativity. Uzbekistan’s rotated defense could be vulnerable, but Qatar’s pressure may not be enough against a relaxed yet disciplined Uzbek side.
