Asian Cup Qualifiers

Kuwait v Australia


Wednesday, January 6
Kuwait v Australia

Verdict: With both nations equal on points at the top of the Group B table, this game takes on an added significance. The winner can almost guarantee a spot in Qatar 2011 for the Asian Cup Finals.

Kuwait have been in a rich vein of form, undefeated in their last 8 competitive encounters while Australia has been on an impressive run themselves since losing to today's opponents 0-1, back in March of 2009. On that occasion, Australia fielded a second string side and despite this evening's line up featuring a sprinkle of experienced Australian internationals in Craig Moore and Luke Wilkshere, it is by far the strongest team. Australian manager, Pim Verbeek, has made comments through out the week about the poor state of the pitch so before a ball has been kicked, the home nation have an advantage.

To sum up, I believe Kuwait should be the favourites here as I don't think this particular Australian team is a class above. In addition, Kuwait has defeated Australia on the last two occasions so belief and confidence is also on their side. Further more, Kuwait plays their last game in Oman whereas Australia play their final game at home to bottom team Indonesia. Even if Australia lose, they are still likely to complete qualification in the last game of the group phase.

Pick: Kuwait +0.25AH @1.85 (sbobet, 7 units)
Kuwait 2 - 2 Australia