2011 AFC ASIAN CUP : JAPAN WINS IN EXCITING FASHION

After a rather unexpected draw with Jordan, Japan played with greater determination in its match against Syria. Syria, which beat powerhouse Saudi Arabia, kept in step with Japan. But Japan's constant attacks finally paid off in the 36th minute of the match as Japanese skipper Hasabe took advantage of a misplay to score Japan's first goal.
In the second half, Syria played more aggressively. Through a controversial call made by a referee, Syria was awarded with a penalty kick at the 73rd minute. Syria went on to score a goal to level the count at 1-1.
At the 80th minute, it was Japan's turn to be awarded a penalty kick in yet another controversial call. With Japanese superstar Seisuke Honda taking the penalty kick, Japan scored its second goal. Syria tried hard to score several times once again but Japan defended its fort well. The match ended with Japan winning, 2-1. The referees were escorted out of the playing field as fans were upset with several controversial calls that they made.
Together with the Red Devils of South Korea, the Blue Samurais of Japan are my top picks to win the 2011 AFC Asian Cup. With the great showing of both teams in the last World Cup, it should be a cinch for the two teams to make the last 4. Australia, ranked 20th in the world, stands in the way of both teams. And the Socceroos were just impressive in their first match against India, scoring a 4-0 victory. Still, with Keisuke Honda and Park Ji Sung leading their respective teams, I believe that Japan and South Korea will contest the Asian Cup in great fashion.