The Japanese arrived in Doha at the start of the month as one of the pre-tournament favourites to claim the trophy and, after an indifferent start, they have got stronger and stronger with each game.

They head into the game against Qatar brimming with confidence after sweeping aside Saudi Arabia 5-0 in their final Group C game and Metsu acknowledged that his side will have to be at their best against a team the Frenchman believes is one of the strongest in the region.

"We are preparing ourselves to meet one of the best teams in Asia and I can say that Japan are like the Barcelona of Asia," he said.

"We need to find the solution to play against them. They play good football, when you watch their three games they play in a style built on good motivation and discipline.

"They made an indifferent start but have developed over the three matches and are a very good team. I believe that in the coming years, they will be the best team in Asia."

Metsu will have to make changes to his side, however, with defender Mohammed Kasoula suspended and midfielder Hussein Yasser excluded from the squad for disciplinary reasons.

Meanwhile, Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni believes that as long as his side to continue to play as they have so far then they have the quality to come out on top in the quarter-final clash.

"We have analysed Qatar and I can imagine what they will play like," said the Italian.

"I know their weaknesses and strengths as well and it is going to be a difficult match and I would like us to play with our style. I believe that I would like to play with a positive attitude tomorrow.

"We need to adjust to our opponents sometimes, but I would like to stick with our style.

"Qatar are the host country and have the momentum but we as a team are becoming a very good group and I have confidence.

"On the pitch it is 11 versus 11, but as long as we play our own game, we should be okay."