The much-awaited AFC World Cup Qualifier between North Korea and Qatar is right around the corner. The match will take place on September 10, 2024, at the Lao National Stadium in Vientiane, Laos, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 AM local time. Both teams are feeling the heat after not bagging any points in their opening matches. With both teams standing with a record of 0-0-1, they are on the hunt for redemption. Betting odds favor Qatar, but expect a tightly contested game.
In their recent performances, both teams have had mixed results. North Korea has two wins under its belt, whereas Qatar has claimed victory in three out of their last five games. Qatar’s Almoez Ali is in sensational form, having scored seven goals in the past five matches. For North Korea, J Il-Gwan has found the back of the net four times. The venue offers a neutral ground, which adds an unpredictable twist to this match.
North Korea vs Qatar Prediction & Betting Tip
Many experts are leaning towards Qatar to win, thanks to their recent form and historical performances against North Korea. However, North Korea’s robust home form makes the Asian Handicap bet on North Korea +1.00 a strategic choice. Despite Qatar having a higher chance of winning, North Korea’s resilience on familiar grounds cannot be ignored. This betting option takes into account both recent performances and stats that might influence the final score.
| North Korea vs Qatar Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| North Korea +1.00 (Asian Handicap) | 1.96 |
North Korea vs Qatar Odds
Qatar stands in a favorable position in the outright odds department, with a winning likelihood reflected in the 1.79 odds range. On the other hand, North Korea’s chances of emerging victorious are considered slim, with odds of 4.11. The odds for a draw stand at 3.49, hinting at a competitive game, albeit with a slight edge tipped towards Qatar due to historical data and team quality.
| North Korea vs Qatar Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Qatar Win | 1.79 |
| Draw | 3.49 |
| North Korea Win | 4.11 |
North Korea Team Analysis
North Korea Recent Performance
North Korea has had a variety of results in their recent games. They have celebrated victories over Myanmar and Syria, showcasing their defensive strength. However, they faced narrow defeats against Uzbekistan and Jordan, indicating some weaknesses at the back. Their draw against Jordan showed their ability to handle tightly contested games, reflecting a defense-oriented mindset.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| North Korea | Myanmar | 2-0 (Win) |
| North Korea | Syria | 1-0 (Win) |
| North Korea | Uzbekistan | 1-2 (Loss) |
| North Korea | Jordan | 1-1 (Draw) |
| North Korea | Jordan | 0-1 (Loss) |
Key player J Il-Gwan adds much-needed attacking firepower. He is crucial in making them competitive, especially on home ground. Against Qatar, they must maintain their defensive stability while seizing their chances upfront.
North Korea Key Players
J Il-Gwan stands out with four goals in the last five matches. He’s a vital part of North Korea’s offensive unit. Alongside him, H Kwang-Song provides significant playmaking contributions. In defense, J Ri is a key figure, offering stability. These players rely on teamwork to improve both attacking and defensive efforts.
The team’s scoring responsibilities are shared among these key players. J Il-Gwan often leads the charge, offering flexibility in their tactical formations. Midfielders also play a pivotal role by ensuring smooth transitions.
North Korea Suspensions & Injuries
Heading into this crucial matchup, North Korea report no suspensions. They have a full squad, which is good news for their tactical plans. While injury reports aren’t clear, the squad seems ready to go.
| Player | Condition | Status |
|---|---|---|
| No suspensions | – | Full Strength |
| No reported injuries | – | Full Availability |
Having a stable lineup allows them to adapt as needed, which is crucial for meeting unexpected challenges. Preparations are on track, focusing on effective team fielding based on training outcomes.
North Korea Tactics and Formation
Expect North Korea to adopt a defensive 4-4-2 setup, aiming for solidity against Qatar’s attacking prowess. This approach seeks to limit Qatar’s options while enabling swift counterattacks. J Il-Gwan is expected to lead the offense.
One of their strategies could involve set-plays, given their physical prowess. Expect defensive adaptability to counter Qatar’s offensive tactics, focusing on controlling space and handling pressure.
Qatar Team Analysis
Qatar Recent Performance
Qatar’s recent performances have been largely positive. They’ve shown an aggressive attacking approach, winning against Kuwait and India. However, a setback came with a loss to the UAE, highlighting areas needing improvement. Their draw against Afghanistan shows tactical adaptability. Overall, they’ve shown a strong attacking capability with some room for defensive improvement.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Qatar | UAE | 0-2 (Loss) |
| Qatar | Kuwait | 3-1 (Win) |
| India | Qatar | 0-3 (Win) |
| Qatar | Afghanistan | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Qatar | Kuwait | 4-0 (Win) |
Almoez Ali is a pivotal striker, essential to Qatar’s plans, as his recent scoring form signifies. Qatar tends to use short passes to break down defenses, posing a threat to North Korea’s backline.
Qatar Key Players
Almoez Ali is the linchpin of Qatar’s attack, with his impressive scoring record. Alongside him, Akram Afif is the key playmaker, guiding Qatar’s tactical play. Defensively, H Ahmed provides significant contributions, giving them depth.
Their midfield strategy involves adaptability and variety, crucial during tactical plays. Experienced players give Qatar analytical depth and awareness, boosting their in-game reactions.
Qatar Suspensions & Injuries
Approaching this match, Qatar reports no suspensions, ensuring maximum squad availability. Injury reports suggest a largely fit roster, allowing coaching staff to make any needed changes right up to kickoff.
| Player | Condition | Status |
|---|---|---|
| No suspensions | – | Full Strength |
| No reported injuries | – | Full Availability |
Their squad depth offers interchangeability, enabling rotation strategies that manage fitness while ensuring a formidable lineup.
Qatar Tactics and Formation
Qatar will likely use an aggressive 4-3-3 formation, focusing on keeping possession. Expect high pressing in North Korea’s half, aiming to capitalize on any defensive lapses.
Defensively, Qatar employs layered depth, with H Ahmed anchoring the defense. Tactical flexibility is expected since Almoez Ali adds thrust to their attack options.
North Korea vs Qatar Head-to-Head Statistics
Historical matches show that Qatar often has the upper hand against North Korea. Although specific scores are missing, Qatar has disrupted North Korea’s strategies in previous meetings.
| Previous Encounters | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| North Korea vs Qatar | Varies | Various |
Overcoming past performances will require North Korea to make strategic tweaks and tactical plans. Previous encounters offer learning points for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming match.
Venue and Weather
The match takes place at the Lao National Stadium in Vientiane, Laos. Weather forecasts indicate a warm temperature of 29.63°C, with broken clouds providing some relief from direct sunlight.
Wind speeds are moderate at 4.04 m/s, which shouldn’t impact the game significantly. These conditions set the stage for an intense battle, matching both teams’ tactical plays. All preparations suggest an engaging encounter is ahead.
