Got up and watched the opening match of the 2011 Asian Cup last night and was very glad that I did. Fantastic game and one that deserves more attention from the media here in Australia.
If you ever needed more evidence that Australia is yet to embrace our move into Asia you only need to scan through the news stations today and witness and the total lack of reporting about the Asian Cup.
It's a pity because it got off to a cracking start last night with Uzbekistan running rings around the tournament hosts Qatar. The first half was all one way traffic with the White Wolves dominating possession and terrorizing Qatar down the left. The Qatari right back had no answer to the skillful and quick Djeparov. It was a joy to watch.
Qatar was extremely fortunate to head into half time 0-0. But it was only a matter of time before the Uzbeks broke the deadlock. In the end it took a outstanding long range strike from Odil Akhmedov to give Uzbekistan the lead. It was a cracking goal and it will be difficult to image it not being the goal of the tournament (though we have a long way to go).
The result and the disappointing performance by Qatar does not bode well for the remainder of the tournament. The fans could be seen on TV leaving their seats by the thousands with 10 minutes to go in the match. Whether they will continue to support the other matches remains to be seen. The true test will come tonight when Kuwait takes on China in the other Group A opening match.
I for one will be be tuning in.
Brendan
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