Japan Leads World Cup Qualifiers Amidst Intense Asian Competition

Japan faces Saudi Arabia in a crucial World Cup qualifier, maintaining a dominant position in Asia's Group C. With impressive victories over China and Bahrain, Japan aims for another win. Meanwhile, South Korea tackles Jordan in Group B, and top teams like Uzbekistan and Iran vie for leadership in Group A.

Japan is set to face Saudi Arabia in a critical World Cup qualifying match on Thursday, maintaining their leading position in Group C. The team, led by Hajime Moriyasu, has showcased its dominance by defeating China and Bahrain with a remarkable tally of 12 goals in the previous fixtures.

As Japan eyes direct qualification for its eighth consecutive World Cup, the team remains largely unchanged. However, Saudi Arabia will miss key midfielder Mohammed Kanno due to suspension. The Saudis are under pressure, trailing Japan by two points after their narrow win over China.

Simultaneously, South Korea will confront Group B leaders Jordan without their injured captain Son Heung-min, while Uzbekistan and Iran battle for supremacy in Group A. These fixtures mark a pivotal moment in the Asian qualifiers as teams vie for direct entry into the World Cup finals.

(With inputs from agencies.)