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Australia aim to end UAE's dark horse run in Asia Cup

Xinhua, January 26, 2015 Adjust font size:

Hosts Australia aim to defeat dark horse United Arab Emirates to reach the final on January 31.

The UAE have shown their power by eliminating defending champion Japan after a penalty shootout in the quarterfinal last Friday. Their skills and good teamwork impressed the spectators all over the Asia.

However, the UAE players were exhausted in last Friday's tough game, adding to concerns over their stamina as the hosts have one more day off than them.

Ange Postecoglou, who adores the beautiful football, has brought tremendous changes to the young Australian side since he took charge. In their previous four games, the Socceroos presented well-organized and efficient counter-attacks.

With veteran striker Tim Cahill still in sharp form and Matthew Spiranovic returning to the defense, the Australians are confident of reaching the Asian Cup final for the second straight time. Endi