The White Wolves’ journey came to a premature end when they were eliminated by Australia in the Round of 16, a defeat Masharipov still can’t forget.

“We were really good in the 2019 edition, but depended a lot on one or two leaders and suffered if they couldn’t perform well,” said Masharipov.

“However, this time the current squad has more discipline and confidence, and we are working cohesively as a team and not relying on individual players to carry us.

“Even the substitutes are contributing significantly to the squad. In fact, we do not have a set first or second team as everyone is equally capable of making it to the first 11,” said the winger.

“For most of the players, it will be their first AFC Asian Cup but many of them have already excelled in other top competitions such as the AFC Champions League™,” said the Panserraikos FC winger. “Moreover, we have already seen their potential during the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, especially against the Islamic Republic of Iran and the more senior members of the team are always ready to help them.”Syria, meanwhile, will be counting on 23-year-old Amar Ramadan to help them advance to the Round of 16 for the first time.

“We have taken part in the AFC Asian Cup six times and have had our ups and downs. We want to change the image of our team and make it to the knockout stage,” said Ramadan. “The first match is very important and I think our chances are equal against Uzbekistan.”

Ramadan, who plies his trade for Slovak side FC DAC 1904, said he is aiming for personal glory at Qatar 2023.

“Any player – Syrian or otherwise – aspires to play in top leagues in Europe and once we make it to the last 16 (of the AFC Asian Cup), more people will be aware of the players in our squad. But none of us are thinking about personal achievements and are solely focused on working together for the Syrian team,” said the attacking midfielder.