AFC U-19 Asian Cup: Qatar set for Yemen clash today

MANAMA, Bahrain:  Qatar take on Yemen in their second AFC U-19 Asian Cup match today with aims of picking up points against the Arab nation. 
On Friday, Qatar were held to a 1-1 draw by Iran after Oscar Cano’s side showed impressive form in the opening clash. 
On Sunday, coach Cano headed the team training session. 
“We started the game very well; we were better and were dominating the game. We had the game under control until they scored a good goal. After that I could see both teams were tired because of the weather and a very competitive game,” Cano said after Qatar’s 1-1 draw on Friday.
“We know the first game in this type of tournament is a difficult game, so the important thing is we didn’t lose the game,” he added. 
With a win today, Qatar will boost its chances of reaching the quarter-finals of the tournament they won in October 2014.
Also known as ‘Al Anabi’, Qatar face Japan - the third side in Group C - on October 20.
Meanwhile, Cano has urged his players to bring their ‘A’ game to the pitch today.
“We are expecting a tough game against Yemen,” Cano said yesterday. 
“Yemen played well despite their loss to Japan,” the coach added.
“We will have to deal with them with our strengths. Yemen play artistic football with a lot of flair. The game will be difficult. 
“I’ve told the players they have to bring their best game to the pitch. It is a difficult group,” he said. “Monday’s game is very important to us,” he said. “My players are ready. This is a greater challenge than the one we had on Friday,” he said. 
“This game will show how we advance to the next stage,” he said. “Obviously the game against Japan also is important (on October 20),” said the Spanish coach of the Qatar team.
“I am confident about our game tomorrow. The players are feeling good,” Cano said.