AGUIRRE'S FATE IN JFA'S HANDS AFTER EARLY ASIAN CUP EXIT

Javier Aguirre and Japan arrived in Australia as favourites for the Asian Cup. As well as the burden of favouritism and the weight of expectation from back home, the manager himself was under scrutiny for his 'alleged' match fixing activities of the past. Despite that, the squad and Aguirre always looked in good spirits during their time in camp.

But in the aftermath of a shock quarter final exit to United Arab Emirates, it's fair to examine and review the team's performance, and in particular that of the manager.

Since being in charge Aguirre's Japan has conceded just eight goals in 11 matches. Four of them goals coming in the October thumping by Brazil, where the manager fielded an experimental squad. Settling on Yoshida (Southampton) and Morishige (FC Tokyo) for the Asian Cup, Aguirre seemed to have pulled the right rein. The pair conceded just once in their four matches in Australia.

Aguirre can also be credited for bringing fresh blood into the national team. In his short period of experimentation between the September friendlies and November friendlies, the Mexican gave time to numerous new faces. As a result youngsters Gaku Shibasaki, Yoshinori Muto and Gotoku Sakai were able to fit into the team seamlessly. The latter particularly impressive.

The debits on Aguirre's account are there, but were they debits already owed. Many reviews into Japan's World Cup performance concluded that Samurai Blue suffered a case of stage fright. Hailed as the 'golden generation', the team travelled to Brazil with a weight of expectation, unfamiliar to a Japanese national soccer team. They failed, and in Australia they failed.

In the Asian Cup quarter final against UAE, Japan bossed the possession 68% to 32%. They bossed the shots on goal stat 35-3. They won the corner count 18-0.

But as the realists among us know, stats count for nothing, and though he might want to, Aguirre can't put the ball into the back of the net himself. The manager witnessed Japan squander chance after chance against the emerging west Asian outfit.

Perhaps the biggest criticism of the Mexican has been his failure to rotate the squad during the tournament. Aguirre used the same starting eleven for all four Asian Cup matches. Managers can always counter this by referring to combinations, and the need to improve upon them with game time. Countering that though, is the harsh seasonal shift the players would have experienced, travelling from the northern hemisphere winter to Australia's hot summer.

Now Aguirre's fate is in the hands of the JFA. Will they use Japan's Asian Cup failure as an excuse to shift a manager currently under scrutiny for actions beyond the playing field, or will they stay loyal? 

KOREANS CRUISE INTO ASIAN CUP FINAL

Korean Republic have cruised into their first Asian Cup final since 1988. The Koreans overcame some early nerves to dispose of their less fancied rivals Iraq.

In front of a raucous 36,053 strong crowd on a wet Monday in Sydney, the Taeguk Warriors appeared to be letting the pressure of the occasion get to them. More than once the Koreans were dispossessed at the back while dwelling on the ball, no doubt causing heart palpitations for their managers Stielike.

But the early pressing from Iraq's Saad Abdulameer and Alaa Abdulzehra subsided after some threatening counters from Son, Heung Min. The conservative measures couldn't spare the Iraqis though, as Lee, Jeong Hyeop headed hard and low to make it 1-0 in the 20th minute.

The Koreans were on a roll from that point on, and a theme for the half was the sight of Younis Mahmoud's frustrated body language, remonstrating every time he was denied possession.

Kim, Young Gwon gave the Koreans a 2 goal buffer early in the second half, after a ball was chested into his path by a teammate. The Guangzhou Evergrande defender picking up a rare goal.

With Iraq forced to take more risks that match played out with Bundesliga star Son, Heung Min making a number of slalom runs through midfield, giving his final opponents more warning of his potential.

The final score of 2-0 meaning the Koreans remain undefeated and still yet to be scored against in the Asian Cup so far. The Taeguk Warriors now stay on in Sydney as Australia and United Arab Emirates play off in Newcastle for the other finals berth.

ABDULRAHMAN NOT THE ONLY THREAT TO SAMURAIS

At yesterday's pre match press conference for Japan versus United Arab Emirates, Samurai Blue manager Javier Aguirre made it clear that his team will be wary of more than just shining light Omar Abdulrahman.

Aguirre's tenure as manager for Japan has been largely successful, apart from a hammering from Brazil in October, while fielding an experimental squad.

But now Japan faces a stern test. They've had quite an easy group stage where it's been possible for them to take their foot off the accelerator and ease back. That won't be possible against the UAE who dominated the majority of their match with Iran.

Probed on who was the key player in the UAE, Aguirre paid respect to the whole team. "I would not be fair to them if I name some. They're a competitive team," the manager said.

Clearly Aguirre didn't want to give airplay to his means of containing Omar Abdulrahman, though Japan would be naive though if they thought they could get through this match without a plan for the UAE's key player.

Meanwhile, United Arab Emirates manager Mahdi Ali has hinted that his team will be doing their best to close down Keisuke Honda. Ali and his team have studied Japan closely and he noted, "They always play an open game and they like to play a possession game, and for us I think it is the same."

With the game played in Sydney tonight, it's expected that more than 20,000 will be in attendance. Last night Melbourne was able to draw 23,381 to the Korea Republic vs Uzbekistan quarter final. Though Sydney still has a semi final to host, plus the final, the 'big city' will quietly assert itself again tonight as the premier sporting city of Australia.

Samurai Blue will have the majority of the support given Australia's fondness for all things Japanese. But if the Asian Cup champions advance to the semi final in Newcastle, the fondness and friendly relations will be cast aside.

CHINA SETS UP QUARTER FINAL FIXTURE WITH AUSTRALIA

China vs DPR Korea at Canberra

Safely qualified for the knoockout phase China met DPR Korea in Canberra for the last of their group round fixtures. Their opponents on the other hand were playing with two losses behind them, and the knowledge they'd soon be leaving the sunny shores of Australia.

Early on North Korea displayed some of the defencive frailties that have been a hallmark of their campaign. They went behind inside the first minute after a centre back misjudged the flight of the ball, and in form striker Sun, Ke pounced.

By the 15th minute Ke was through on goal again, but on this occasion it was owed to a clever interplay in midfield. The Jiangsu Sainty recruit found himself on the right of the box and unselfishly, sent a low ball across the face of goal. His teammates were unable to meet the ball, for what would have been a tap in.

A regular theme throughout the half were the sightings of both Chinese fullbacks in the attacking third. Manager Alain Perrin it seems has given them license to roam, and coupled with the passing game of Hao, Junmin, the Chinese pose a true threat.

Though it should be mentioned that before Sun, Ke made it 2-0 with a gift of a goal, the North Koreans did open up the Chinese. Jong, Il Kwan lunged at close to full stretch, in order to race the advancing Wang, Dalei (GK) to a lobbed through ball. His contact was too heavy though and the ball sailed over the bar.

With their 2-0 lead in hand China took their foot off the gas in the second half. The replacement of Guangzhou's battle hardened midfielder Zheng, Zhi may have had a lot to do with the space the North Koreans suddenly had to operate in.

Barely ten minutes into the second half, a cross was allowed to sail from one side of the box to the other. It was left to 22 year old Jong Il Kwan to finish the job, with a neat cut back and finish. Sadly for Jong the goal was labelled an own goal, after deflecting off Gao Lin.

North Korea threatened again late in the match, and this will be something manager Allain Perrin will be analysing in the lead up to the quarter final with Australia in Brisbane.

Asked about China's second half performance after the match, Zhang, Linpeng put it down to mental strength. "We didn't concentrate very well, so we made some mistakes."

Quizzed on how China could beat the Socceroos, the Guangzhou Evergrande fullback indicated his confidence in his French manager. "Australia's team is a very strong team, the players are very strong, very skillful, very fast. We just need to follow the coach's instructions," he said.

China will head to Brisbane as underdogs, and for the first time their fans will be outnumbered. On their side though is the fact they've won on the much maligned Brisbane surface, twice. Contrastingly it's Australia who has been one of the loudest detractors of the pitch.

IRAN vs QATAR: Match Report

Tens of thousands of Iranian fans descended upon Sydney's Stadium Australia for what was expected to be akin to a training ground match, after opponents Qatar were battered by UAE in their Asian Cup  opener.

But the Iranians met a commited opponent. Early on the Iranians had the better of play. Forward Sardar's glancing header had the fans on their feet and the Qataris looked lost in the noise and fanfare created by the large Iranian contingent in attendance. 

However, the Gulf Cup champions found a way into the match. There best outlet Lekhwiya midfielder Mohamad Ismail, made countless runs into the attacking third. Unfortunately for Qatar his crosses were either intercepted or of poor quality. 

Qatar's left back also found a way into the attacking third, and a measure of the seriousness of his threat was the manner in which Dejagah brought him down. His sliding tackle from behind could politely be described as disrespectful of a fellow professional. Unbelievably Dejagah got off scot free. 

With Qatar having the better of play by the half hour mark, a frustrated Nekounam could be seen gesticulating toward Masoud. While the experienced heads talked, Dejagah was busy in the action, reeling off a shot on the brink of half time, as Iran edged back into the contest.

At the commencement of the second half Iran asserted themselves. Midfielder Masoud forcing his opponent into a yellow card offence as he dribbled man on man toward the perimeter of the box. And when Qatar turned it over in their own half the rampaging Dejagah was on the scene to quickly feed Sardar. Sardar simply swivelled and lost his marker, before stabbing the ball into the far corner.

Iran were happy to sit back and attack on the break from that point on. Former Fulham midfielder Dejagah putting in an 'energizer bunny' performance as his teammates provided a free sample of Iran's award winning defence. 

Qatar threw everything at the Iranians, but Team Melli showed more evidence of their signature impregnable defence. Though early on Muntari was often short of a teammate in the attacking third, late in the second half, Qatar would have needed their whole complement to surge forward to match Iran's numbers at the back. 

The final minutes became a replay reel of Qatari long balls, launched in vein, as Iran's battalion at the back remained miserly. Iran now head into their match with UAE assured of qualification for the knockout phase, likewise their opponents. Both will march with trepidation toward a possible quarter final showdown with Japan.

KUWAIT v KOREA REPUBLIC: Match Report

More then 9000 were in attendance on Tuesday for Kuwait vs Korea Republic. Those there,  predominantly in red turned the fixture into a quasi home game for the Taeguk Warriors.

In an uneventful and tame first 20 minutes Kuwait looked to be capable of matching the Koreans, who were fielding a first eleven minus a number of starters from their Asian Cup opener.

Creative midfielder Aziz looked to be the outlet for Kuwait with a couple of maizy runs from midfield. Unfortunately Aziz was also responsible for some errant passes as Kuwait struggled to maintain meaningful possession the longer the half went.

In the 25th minute some sloppy work by Jang allowed Yousef to pounce and the two were shoulder to shoulder heading into the box. Jang already cautioned did enough to force a poor first touch from Yousef, and the danger was averted.

The incident proved to be a turning point, minutes later Lee, Keun Ho was staring down goal with a one on one opportunity after a Kuwaiti opponent was dispossessed. The former Gamba Osaka forward's lob tapped over the bar.

But the Koreans would get their go ahead goal in the 36th minute. It was via what could be called a Korean cliche - another Cha Du Ri wing raid. Nam Tae Hee flew through a pack of blue shirts to make it one nil, with his head.

The second half got underway in the same inclement conditions but the action was at maximum contrast settings. Kuwait were ready to take risks with their Asian Cup lives on the line.

Midfielder Ali Almaqseed was first to raise the question with his shot that rattled the woodwork. A free kick moments later sailed on by the Korean defence the saving grace being that their Kuwaiti opponents were caught off guard, unable to poke home what should have been an equaliser.

The pulsating second half saw both teams with multiple chances, the Koreans wasteful when they surged into the attacking third with extra men. But the highlight of the match was the courageous performance of Aziz.

The midfielder winning a number of free kicks and playing himself to a stand still with step overs, and evasive dribbling. Teammate Almaqseed was just as inspirational though at one stage his enthusiasm bubbled over into a reckless foul on Ki.

For Korea Republic the match will raise questions about their defence as they were regularly prised open through the centre of the field. And their finishing will also come under scrutiny, no doubt they'll head into their final group match against Australia with a stronger first eleven.

For Kuwait, Oman must spring an upset against the Socceroos tonight, before the blues then face their Gulf rivals on Saturday in Newcastle. Korea Republic 1-0 Kuwait.

JAPAN v PALESTINE - Match Report

A large contingent of flag waving Palestinian fans blew into Newcastle for the country's first ever Asian Cup fixture. Facing the continental champions Japan, the odds were stacked against them, though the weather conditions certainly hindered the favourites.

Japan got the scoring underway after the Palestinians laid deep, inviting trouble. Midfield general Yasuhito Endo used the time and space to drive the ball from outside the box, into the far left of goal.

For a brief period the Palestinians had themselves in the attacking third, but it was brief and unthreatening.

Making an impact however, was Japan's fresh faced right back Gotoku Sakai. The Stuttgart defender linked well on a number of occasions with Shinji Okazaki and Keisuke Honda.

When Japan's second goal did finally arrive it was with the aid of some good fortune. Left back Nagatomo had charged into the box rounding defenders at the bye-line where he had no option but to cross. The Palestinians failed to fully clear. Dortmund attacker Kagawa bursted onto the ball from midfield, with forward Okazaki redirecting the missile into goal.

With a 2-nil deficit to act on Palestine showed some encouraging signs through midfield, Said and Abuhabib linking occasionally. But the wind was taken out of their sails when a penalty was awarded moments before half time. Honda slotting it away after Okazaki was clattered into.

The second half was barely underway when Southampton defender Maya Yoshida made it 4-0. The big man simply leaping higher than his opponents.

From that point the Japanese seemed to take the foot off the pedal. Half time substitute Kiyotake and 58th minute sub Muto were unable to maintain the momentum.

Despite the scoreline and windy conditions the Palestinian fans continued to sing and dance, and every time star striker Ashraf found himself with the ball near the box, the decibels were raised.

With 73 minutes past defender Mahajna picked up his second yellow card. At that point there was a feeling the flood gates may open but the Japanese didn't take advantage. It was a second half performance that never kicked off.

Apart from a late goal mouth scramble Japan didn't look like extending their four goal lead.

Nevertheless the champions of Asia have stamped their mark on the tournament, matching Australia's four goal haul against Kuwait. Japan now head to Brisbane, to take on Iraq who defeated Jordan 1-0.

SAMURAIS IN HIGH SPIRITS

Japan's Yoshinori Muto. Picture courtesy Kaoru Watanabe.

On Saturday morning Japan conducted a light training session at Newcastle's No. 2 Sportsground.

The team was greeted by muggy conditions, but the humidity had no affect on the spirits of the players.

As the team enjoyed a light hearted kick about to get the session underway, cackles of laughter echoed about the sparsely populated ground.  Clearly the team had forgotten about their disappointing loss to Brazil in October.

At that time manager Javier Aguirre was blooding some new talent after a disappointing World Cup in Brazil. Though Japan was defeated 4-0, a number of players benefited from the Mexican's decision to experiment. 

One of those players was Yoshinori Muto. The young striker said, "If I play on Monday, I just want a good result. I'm not so concerned with goals." 

Muto talks with East Asian Soccer.
Picture - Kaoru Watanabe.

The 22 year old is expected to start off the bench behind Germany based Shinji Okazaki. Pressed on who he had learnt the most from in the camp Muto answered, “Everyone here has high skill levels, so I’ve learnt from everyone.” 

Muto enjoyed a break out season with his J-League club FC Tokyo last year, scoring 13 goals for the mid table outfit. 

Meanwhile, on Sunday Southampton's Maya Yoshida rocked the AFC boat by suggesting the tournament be staged in the northern hemisphere summer.

Speaking to the Newcastle Herald the defender said, "I know it's very difficult with TV rights and broadcasts, but I think the best time is the same time as the Euro." 

As defending champions and favourites for the Asian Cup, Japan will have a weight of pressure on them, illustrated by the media throng that tracks the national team’s every move. 

Japan’s first assignment is at Hunter Stadium tonight. They meet unknowns Palestine. From there Japan conducts a Tuesday morning training session in Newcastle, before heading to Brisbane for their clash with Iraq. 

ASIAN CUP SET TO PROVIDE SURPRISES

Son, Heung Min in action for Korea Republic.

With hosts Australia going through an identity crisis at the moment, and numerous other Asian Cup contenders taking on new managers recently, the continental tournament is set to provide plenty of shocks.

Last year East Asian Soccer said neither Australia nor Japan could win the tournament. Since then Japan has experienced a stunning form turnaround, whilst Australia is still languishing at 100 in the FIFA rankings. 

Yes, Japan are back on our contenders list but there has been nothing to suggest Australia can suddenly halt their steep descent through the rankings. Current manager Ange Postecoglou is defiant in his bid to play pressing and passing football, despite the results the tactics have yielded (2 wins from 12 matches). 

The Socceroos come into the tournament opener against Kuwait heavily dependent on Tim Cahill. "They've always been a difficult opponent for Australia . . ." Postecoglou told the media at a recent press conference. But the general public are totally unaware of the threat of Kuwait. One radio station had hosts talking about brining on substitutes against Kuwait if the Aussies are leading 3-nil or 6-nil.

Kuwait themselves have had a recent managerial change and their form is also on a downward spiral, winning 1 from their last 6. Boss Nabil Maaloul said the team had regained some confidence since he took charge on December 18, after a disappointing Gulf Cup. Head to head it's Kuwait 5, Australia 3, and 2 draws.

Winners of the Gulf Cup in November, Qatar do nothing but impress me, and they're the dark horse of the tournament. The Maroon are undefeated in their last 11 matches. Amongst the scalps they've claimed are Uzbekistan, Australia and Estonia. In a tournament full of questions, the form line of Qatar provides answers. They'll advance through Group C, but they need to win their group or they'll face Japan in the quarter finals.

Iran manager Carlos Queiroz.

Iran were an early favourite at East Asian Soccer but their disrupted campaign has us concerned. Team Melli has had just two friendlies since their decent showing at Brazil 2014. Though it should be noted they won those two friendlies. One against Korea Republic in November and the other against Iraq last week. 

In their favour is the fact they meet Bahrain first, who we see as the weakest of their group opponents. Manager Carlos Queiroz has been coy since arriving in Australia and you get the feeling Iran is ticking along fine behind the smoke and mirrors.

Korea Republic is another definite contender. The Taeguk Warriors have too much class to not make an impact here in Australia. They haven't won the tournament since 1960 and it's high time for them to taste success again. 

With European based stars Ki Seung Yong, Lee Chung Yong,  Son Heung Min it's silly to think the Reds won't click at some stage of the tournament. After their wretched performance at Brazil, they'll be out to make amends. 

New manager Uli Stielike was a surprise choice for many, given he's had an on-off experience as boss. Most recently at Al Arabi in the Qatari Star League, the German should not have a problem with getting the Korean to click. Their glamour is backboned by some experienced campaigners, Cha Du Ri, Lee Keun Ho and 29 year old goalkeeper Jung Sung Ryong.

Korea Republic will advance through their group and most likely face China or Uzbekistan, from their they'll face Iran or Qatar in the semi final, before going all the way in front of a ravenous crowd of expats in Sydney. 

The Asian Cup is sure to provide plenty of surprises over the next three weeks. I'm crossing my fingers the hosts can advance beyond the group stage. 

JAPAN vs AUCKLAND CITY - Match Report

Though Auckland City had turned heads in the Club World Cup, they were clearly our of their depth against the Japanese national team.

In a first half where Auckland couldn't get the ball into the attacking third, it was a matter of how long. Played in the late afternoon of a sweltering hot Newcastle day both teams did seem a little off the pace at times. 

Until Yasuhito Endo's goal in the 33rd minute the best chances fell to Keisuke Honda and Shinji Okazaki. Honda lashing a bouncing volley wide, while Okazaki failed to get on the end of a teasing cross that crossed the face of goal.

With his goal coming off a deflected drive Endo bowed his head while receiving plaudits of his teammates. The Gamba Osaka midfielder showed his classy touch throughout the match but it was Keisuke Honda who had most influence over proceedings. 

Auckland looked to make amends in the second half and certainly acquitted themselves well. Nigerian Sanni Issa will surely have impressed any scouts on the lookout for a strong and speedy forward. His injection into the game ensured the Japanese defenders experienced some pressure prior to the tournament.

The Cessnock crowd full of Samurai Blue admirers were almost stunned when Issa found himself one on one with keeper Eiji Kawashima, after a quick counter down the kiwi left. The diagonal ball was met by Issa at the edge of the box, but the Nigerian could only spray the ball high and wide. A tough chance, but one that would light up the eyes of any footballer.

Japan took the warning in the 76th minute and Auckland never threatened again. With Kiyotake, Konno and Muto coming on 10 minutes into the second half, the changes proved a master stroke.

Kiyotake provided the assist for Okazaki's 90th minute goal after some clever interplay with Keisuke Honda. All that was left for the Mainz striker was to tap it in. 

Japan ending the match comfortable 2-0 winners after a minor scare in the 76th minute. 

SAMURAIS IN CESSNOCK

Cessnock Sportsground

Japan's soccer samurais have arrived in Australia and are wasting no time getting in some match practise. Today Japan will play one of two friendly fixtures in preparation for the Asian Cup. The unlikely location for the match is Cessnock, neighbouring Hunter Valley wine country.

More often associated with wine production and rugby league icons the Johns brothers, Cessnock has landed a major coup. Located 35 minutes from Newcastle CBD the township will not only host Japan vs Auckland City today, but Cessnock is also providing Japan's pre-tournament accommodation.

Cessnock Sportsground green keeper Greg Chappell said of the venue and surface, "You won't see it like this again."

The pitch is the home of local rugby league side the Cessnock Goannas, and Chappell was of the opinion that once the league season was in full swing (April-May) the surface would resemble a cow paddock.

Pitch level at Cessnock Sportsground

Nevertheless the pitch is currently in pristine condition and though the match is a friendly, Japan is expected to give opponents Auckland City a dressing down. The Kiwi club side (semi professional) is fresh from an unbelievable run to the semi finals of the World Club Cup.

The Navy Blues (Auckland City) themselves have two Japanese nationals in their squad. Thirty-one year old Takuya Iwata and twenty-five year old Kohei Matsumoto are expected to start for Auckland with Matsumoto coming in for the injured Simon Arms. The two will no doubt be taking the friendly very seriously. Adding to their Japanese contingent the Auckland City squad reads like a United Nations general assembly. The squad includes: Serbian, Spanish, Korea Republic, Potuguese, South African, Papua New Guinean, Nigerian, English and Croatian members.

With the Cessnock Sportsground in the condition it is, no amount of international flavour will allow Auckland City to trouble Japan, and with a well known betting agency offering $1.28 for the Samurais, it looks to me like taking candy from a baby. 

WESTERN SYDNEY OUT OF FINALS CONTENTION FOR 2014/15

It's a write off! Wanderers fans prepare yourself, for there is no fairy tale ending to A-League season 2014/15.

In these dark days Wanderers fans have been surviving off the rumours of a player overhaul in the January transfer window. With loud noises surrounding a number of players, manager Tony Popovic was quoted in the Daily Telegraph today, fanning the flames, "Every player is contracted but we'll see what happens in January."

So Western Sydney can expect new recruits soon, but new recruits require time. Firstly there is integration into the playing group, then there is adapting to the playing style. Add to that the forming of on field combinations that can break open a defence.

No doubt the Wanderers need time but that is something they dont have. They face an equally desperate Central Coast today before taking on Melbourne Victory on January 6th.

Yes, the Asian Cup break will give new recruits much needed time to be integrated into the group. But Western Sydney simply have to win from this point on.

A-League ladder 01/01/2015

With Melbourne City in 6th (the last finals position) and on 16 points, the Wanderers with their two games in hand are 13 points adrift. That is simply too much to reel in when you consider they will have to negotiate the ACL from late February onward.

Only a miracle can turn this season around, and the Wanderers have surely used up all the divine assistance due to them, for a year or two at least.