Tajikistan and Lebanon currently occupy the third and fourth positions in the standings, each having secured a single point.
“Our preparations have been going very well and I believe we can come out with a result that will see us through,” said Umarbayev. “Once we qualified for the Asian Cup, our goal was to make it to the knockout stage and that hasn’t changed.

“This is a big competition with people watching from all over the world. We know what is at stake and we are getting ready step by step.”

Umarbayev, who plies his trade for Bulgarian side CSKA 1948, also lauded the charismatic personality of head coach Petar Segrt, commending the positive impact his attitude has had on the team.

“We have been working with Coach Sergt for about two years now and have gotten to know him very well. His attitude lifts the mood in the dressing room, and we derive a lot of positive energy from him,” said the midfielder.

“For instance, losing Amadoni Kamolov to a red card presents a challenge, but we are a team of 26, and I am confident that whoever steps in will capably fulfill the role.”

With both teams vying for their first goal of the tournament, Lebanon defender Khalil Khamis recognised the need to deviate from their usual game plan and adopt a more offensive approach.

“Tajikistan have proven to be a strong side and the match against them is a decisive one. Our sole objective is to come out victorious. We have improved with every match and are keen to leave a mark on the Asian Cup,” said the centre-back.

“Given how things stand, we have to start on an offensive note, unlike our last two games. We have to focus on scoring.

“Moreover, I’d like to thank the fans for coming out in numbers for our matches as it really motivates us. I hope we can go through to the next round not just for them but for all the fans who are watching us play back home.”