Five years have passed since Qatar claimed their first AFC Asian Cup title. Now, they find themselves just two games away from potentially retaining their crown. But if they are to achieve this feat, they will need the return of one of the key figures from their 2019 triumph - Almoez Ali.
In the previous edition of the tournament, Ali's incredible performance saw him not only lift the Asian Cup trophy but also secure the Top Scorer and Most Valuable Player awards. With an astonishing nine goals to his name, he truly stood out as the standout individual during the competition. However, his teammate Akram Afif also played a significant role, providing ten assists and making a case for the same honors.
Now, in 2024, while Afif continues to excel, the same cannot be said for Ali. The tall and hardworking striker has always given his all, even when leading the line on his own. His role as the focal point of Qatar's attack is crucial, often connecting with the likes of Afif and Hassan Al-Haydos from deeper positions.
Unfortunately, Ali's goal-scoring output this time around has been far from ordinary. With just one goal to his name, he has struggled to find the back of the net in three starts, having been rested for their final Group A match against China. What's concerning is not just his lack of goals but also the fact that he hasn't even been getting enough chances. He has only managed six shots on goal, with only two on target.
Fortunately, Qatar has shown that they are not solely reliant on Ali in this tournament. Afif has stepped up, scoring four goals and positioning himself as a contender for the MVP award. Additionally, captain Al-Haydos has contributed two goals, showcasing his experience in what is likely to be his final Asian Cup appearance at the age of 33.
Nonetheless, Qatar faces a significant challenge in the semifinals against powerhouse Iran, who are arguably the favorites to win the title after their assured victory over Japan in the previous round. Iran boasts an impressive attacking force, led by Porto's Mehdi Taremi and Roma's Sardar Azmoun, supported by skilled Europe-based players such as Alireza Jahanbakhsh and Saman Ghoddos. They also have the experienced Karim Ansarifard waiting in the wings.
Iran's defensive prowess cannot be overlooked either. Despite injuries ruling out Sadegh Moharrami and Majid Hosseini for the rest of the tournament, they still possess a solid back four. Center-backs Hossein Kanaanizadegan and Shoja' Khalilzadeh form a formidable duo, ready to assert their authority from the first whistle. While Iran has conceded four goals in the competition so far, they have not allowed more than one goal in a single game. Moreover, some of those goals came from penalties or rare mistakes by goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.
Qatar is fully aware of the magnitude of the challenge that lies ahead if they are to advance to the finals and maintain their dream of repeating as continental champions. Going up against a powerhouse ranked 21st in the world is daunting enough, especially considering that Iran is determined to win their first Asian Cup title since 1976.
To make matters worse, Qatar will face an even greater obstacle if Almoez Ali fails to find his best form and regain his prolific goal-scoring prowess.
