Goyang: Korea Republic and Lebanon will look to consolidate their positions in Group H’s top two places when they take on Turkmenistan and Sri Lanka respectively on Saturday.

The withdrawal of DPR Korea means that just four teams remain when Group H resumes in the Korea Republic city of Goyang after more than 18 months without action.

Korea Republic and Lebanon currently occupy first and second places in the standings with seven points apiece, while, a point behind on six, Turkmenistan remain in the hunt for a top-two finish. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, are still aiming to get off the mark.

Lebanon vs Sri Lanka

Lebanon sit hot on the heels of Korea Republic having also picked up seven points from three games, including a commendable 0-0 draw against the Taeguk Warriors back in November 2019.

The Cedars, who are targeting a return to the third round of Asian Qualifiers having also reached that stage in the 2014 campaign, also secured wins over Turkmenistan and Sri Lanka to leave them in a strong position ahead of the resumption.

Hassan Maatouk and Hilal El Helwe were both on the scoresheet when Lebanon defeated the Sri Lankans 3-1 in Colombo, and a second successive victory over their opponents could seal a place in the top two.

i Lanka, meanwhile, have only pride to play for in Goyang as they look to pick up their first points of the campaign after previously losing all four of their games.

The match marks the fourth time the sides have faced off, with Lebanon twice beating Sri Lanka in the Asian Qualifiers in 2001 and the South Asians claiming a memorable 4-3 win over the West Asians at the 2009 Nehru Cup in India.

Lebanon vs Sri Lanka
Venue: Goyang Stadium, Goyang
Kick-off: June 5, 15:00 (UTC+9)

source: https://www.the-afc.com/competitions/afc-asian-cup/news/asian-qualifiers-group-h-preview-korea-republic-lebanon-in-search-of-victories-a