An eventful Asian Cup group stage has come and gone without too many huge surprises. 24 teams have become 16 as several knockout rounds will dictate the premier footballing side in Asia. After winning the previous Asian Cup in 2015, the Socceroos stumbled out of the gate, before winning 2 straight to finish in 2nd place. Headlined by the Socceroos taking on Uzbekistan, let’s take a look at our best bet in the 3 signature games on the board.
When/Where: AUSTRALIA VS UZBEKISTAN, TUESDAY 1 AM
TIP: Australia to Win $1.70
Australia
The Socceroos enter the knockout stages after a nervy group state that saw them surprisingly finish second. Fortunately, a draw against Uzbekistan in the Round of 16 isn’t the worst they could’ve received. After an opening round loss to Jordan, the Socceroos looked better in their last 2 games, having over 60% possession in wins over Palestine and Syria. Awer Mabil looked the goods with goals in the last 2 matches, whilst a Tom Rogic thunderstrike was the difference against Syria.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan enter the Round of 16 off the back of a mixed campaign that saw them finish 2nd in their group behind Japan. Beating Oman and Turkmenistan by a combined scoreline of 6-1 is nothing to sneeze at. Captain and Midfielder Odil Ahmedov looms as their most dangerous threat, whilst Striker Eldor Shomurodov is promising up front.
Prediction: Australia to Win at $1.70
As the reigning champions, this is a game the Socceroos ought to be winning in regulation. They have the significant talent edge in this one and have put in solid performances in each of their last 2. Expect a controlled and composed victory from Australia here.
Correct Score: 2-1 at $8.00
To help punters find a bit more value, a 2-1 correct score bet at $8 looks a solid option. Whilst the Socceroos can no doubt score, they’ve been somewhat leaky at the back of late. I expect them to go up 2-0 here, before a late Uzbekistan goal makes things interesting.
