Uzbekistan out to banish memories of Aussie drubbing

Doha: Uzbekistan coach Vadim Abramov said Tuesday's 6-0 loss to Australia was his biggest as coach but hoped his younger players would forget it and play for a berth in the next Asian Cup in today's play-off against South Korea.

"Once again I want to say sorry to all the Uzbekistan people and the fans. Once we conceded the second goal we went for a goal and that made it easy for them," said Abramov.

"However against South Korea I have told my players to forget the results and get back and salvage some prestige. They are motivated to go back with a win," the Uzbek coach said.

Important win

"Winning against South Korea is as important as qualifying for the 2015 Asian Cup. The team has worked hard and they deserve a win," Ahmedov said.

South Korean coach Cho Kwang-rae said he will field his best possible team to win the match.

"We have had two tough matches, both going to extra time.

"My players are exhausted and are battling injuries, he said.

The AFC said yesterday it will not take any action against Korea Republic player Ki Sung-yeung for the player's goal celebration during the AFC Asian Cup semi-final against Japan on Tuesday.

Tournament Director Tokuaki Suzuki confirmed that AFC was aware of the goal celebration, which — according to some sections of the media — had racist connotations.

"AFC is aware of the goal celebration but we don't think it impacts on any country," said Suzuki.

"The issue, according to my understanding, has already been resolved after communication between the Japan Football Association and the Korea Football Association.