United Arab Emirates will look to clinch a spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2015 when it takes on Hong Kong on Friday.
The United Arab Emirates currently sits atop Group E with nine points in three matches. The team took down Vietnam 2-1 in its opening game and then followed it up with a 2-1 win over Uzbekistan. In the recent battle with Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates exploded for a 4-0 victory; Ali Mabkhout scored three goals in the game.
A win in this match will clinch a spot for the United Arab Emirates in the tournament. The team will also qualify if it manages a draw and Uzbekistan loses or ties against Vietnam.
Hong Kong sits in third place with four points but the nation needs a win to keep pace with Uzbekistan. Both teams have four points. Hong Kong tied Uzbekistan on the road before defeating Vietnam 1-0.
A loss for Hong Kong would potentially put it three points behind Uzbekistan if the latter nation defeats Vietnam in its game; a draw for Hong Kong would potentially leave it two points behind in the race for second place.
Prediction: Hong Kong was destroyed at home and while it is unlikely that the same scoreline will be repeated on Friday, it is unlikely that Hong Kong manages to defeat United Arab Emirates on the road. Expect a 3-0 win from the United Arab Emirates.
Start Time: Kick-off gets underway at 10 a.m. EST.
The match will not be broadcast in the United States or online.
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