The AFC Asian Cup is finally underway and despite the fact it’s freezing cold here in South Korea, it’s nice and hot over in the host country of the UAE. Here is our preview and prediction for this AFC Asian Cup Group Game;
South Korea v Philippines – Preview & Prediction
Who: South Korea vs. Philippines
When: Monday January 7th at 5.30pm (Local Time) / 10.30pm (Korea Time)
Where: Al-Maktoum Stadium in Dubai
This is the opening group game for these two nations and South Korea will start as big favorites. South Korea haven’t lost a game since the World Cup and start the tournament as one of the favorites to go all the way. The Philippines have played a good number of competitive games recently making it to the final of the South East Asian Cup, losing in the end to Vietnam. They are lead by former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson so they will be well organized.
H2H Record:
This is the first ever meeting between South Korea and the Philippines.
Prediction:
Overall this won’t be an easy game for South Korea, but one they should still win. I see the Philippines playing deep and defensively for most of the game looking to break. South Korea just need to be patient and look to exploit any gaps at the back.
South Korea 3-1 Philippines
Finally
Just quickly here is the South Korea squad for the AFC Asian Cup;
Any thoughts, comments or questions. Feel free to comment below or message me via Twitter.
Modern Seoul 