GROUP A
The Asian Cup version of Qatar was the complete opposite of the World Cup Qatar, as the hosts won all three group-stage games at a canter. Roared on by big crowds, the Maroons were even able to defeat China 1-0 with a second-string team in the final game after already securing top spot. Hassan Al Haydos came off the bench and his first touch was a stunning volley straight from a corner. China left without even scoring a goal in their worst-ever performance at the finals, arriving home to general apathy.
Lebanon were in with a shout of a first-ever second-round spot
