sports
Japan the example to follow but this has been a dismal World Cup for Asia
Iran were treated badly while two countries were debutants, but Saudi Arabia and South Korea should have done better
TL;DR
- Japan narrowly lost 2-1 to Brazil in the last-32 of the World Cup, showing promising energy and skill.
- Most of Asia's nine World Cup teams were eliminated in the first round, with Australia being the only other survivor.
- Iran, despite drawing all three games, faced obstacles and came close to the knockout stage.
- Debutants Jordan and Uzbekistan, along with Iraq, gained international experience but struggled against top teams.
- Saudi Arabia and Qatar relied heavily on domestic-based squads and lacked long-term planning.
- South Korea was considered disappointing, failing to advance despite an opening win.
- The article suggests the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) needs reform and that other Asian nations should emulate Japan's long-term vision.