The biggest contenders to win the title, Iran, passed their first test in the Asian Cup knockout stage against Oman. After a great group stage performance, Jordan failed to defeat Vietnam.
Qatar have taken the Gulf, Lebanon ended up with the tears
Qatar completed the group stage with another clean sheet and a win against rivals Saudi Arabia. Lebanon won against North Korea, but missed the knockout stage by a single yellow card.
Japan on top of the group, a dramatic win for Oman
Japan defeated Uzbekistan and qualified from the first place to the next round. A dramatic goal by Oman in the 94th minute brought them to the round of 16.
Iran v Iraq: The Middle Eastern Clásico
Everything was ready for the Clásico of Middle Eastern football between Iran and Iraq. Even though the game was goalless and there was more than one clash between the players, it was one of the best matches of the tournament.
Son Heung-Min leads South Korea to the next stage
South Korea defeated China and finished at the top of Group C. Now they can concentrate on their mission, winning their first continental trophy since 1960, as Son Heung-Min joined them right on time.