If that wasn't the most controversial offside call this year I will eat these words. This group has definitely been an awesome title fight with all the contenders throwing their weight around. In true street fighting spirit the combatants have not cowered at their opposition's status or perceived standings, instead when they enter the field there is a real feeling that "this could go either way".
Regardless of Japan's pressure and the dubious free kick, it was a real arm wrestle to see who would be victorious when Syria battled them. Equally so was Jordan's assault on the much fancied Saudi Arabian side who came into this tournament with the hangover of second place in 2007. With the underdog Jordanian's lofting a cross that seemed to lift at the right moment completely stranding the Saudi keeper for the 1-0 win.
The wash-up of all this is that cup runners up Saudi Arabia have been knocked out and a real 3-way fight remains between the survivors. With Japan set to face Saudi Arabia in their final match the danger could very well be a Saudi side looking to prove themselves with nothing to lose, a very dangerous prospect for the Blue Samurai however I believe Japan will win comfortably. This means all fight fans should be tuned into the Jordan vs Syria match. Both these teams have been impressive and only have one philosophy, attack, attack and attack.
This has been the neutrals dream matchup since both these teams exploded into action on their opening matches. With a very real winner takes all outcome, hope for the exceptional and expect the extraordinary.
In a group tipped to be so mundanely predictable I have been amazed by the drama. Outrageous penalties, coaches sacked after opening day disasters and some of the most insanely entertaining football I have seen in a tournament for some time. If AFC ever need to sell the game to the world, then surely the DVD of this group would be a must have weapon in the arsenal. It is with a little sorrow that it must come to an end so soon but at least we have the final match day to enjoy.
The added bonus for us Aussie fans is that you will be adopting the winner of group B as your proxy Qatar dream destroyer as group B's champion will face them midnight 21/1/11. Where we can all watch with glee as the 2022 WC nation gets flogged by any one of these great teams.
Happy viewing.
