FIFA World Cup 2022: Last night brought an end to the FIFA WC 2022 Group Stage as 16 teams secured their place in the Round of 16 stage.
There was a time when Asian teams were not in the reckoning for the knockout stages but now with the increased importance to the game, there are peaking at the right time.
We look at the 3 Asians teams FIFA WC 2022; who have shown why are they are rightfully and deservedly a part of the World Stage through their passion/
🏆 First time in World Cup history that 3 teams from the Asian confederation are through to the knockout stages of the tournament!
🇦🇺 Australia
🇯🇵 Japan
🇰🇷 South Korea #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/Cj1FSJuHSt— Football Daily (@footballdaily) December 2, 2022
Australia
Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022: How to Watch Live Streaming of Round of 16, Channel Name and Link
The Socceroos emerged as a surprise qualifier from Group D when they secured their Round of 16 berth ahead of Denmark.
Australia won 2 of their 3 matches and finished 2nd behind France in Group D
With victories over Tunisia and Denmark by 1-0 margins, they sneaked through to set up a Round of 16 clash vs Argentina.
Socceroos are the underdogs in that contest but are expected to still put in a good fist to make it a tantalizing one.
Goodwin, Duke and Leckie were their scorers in the group stage and remain target-men during the knockouts.
South Korea
Korea managed just a goalless draw, loss and win from their three matches which proved enough.
They sneaked ahead of Uruguay based on goals scored as both teams had picked up 4 points each.
A late winner from Hwang in the 91st minute saw them overcome Portugal in their final group match.
South Korea meet Brazil on Monday night for their Round of 16 clash and look to keep their dream alive through their gutsy, desirous and passionate display.
Japan
Also read: Japan win a thriller over Spain 2-1 to top Group E; set up Round of 16 clash with Croatia
Japan emerged as the serious underdog of the WC 2022 when they displaced Germany and Spain to top Group E.
They topped the group with wins over Germany and Spain to seal their Round of 16 berth; where they face Croatia on Monday.
From impactful substitutions to never giving up; Japan showcased to all why they are to be reckoned and given respect as this juncture.
With 17.7% of the ball, Japan have won a World Cup game with the lowest possession figure in recorded WC history.#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/WTu4v4bTTd
— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) December 1, 2022
