History-makers Uzbekistan dreams big at Women's Asian Cup

History-making Uzbekistan are targeting a major upset against South Korea in the Women's Asian Cup quarter-finals, with coach Kotryna Kulbyte on Friday urging her players to keep dreaming big. The two sides clash in Sydney on Saturday with direct qualification to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil guaranteed for the winner. While South Korea -- the 2022 Asian runners-up -- are making their fourth consecutive appearance in the knockout rounds, it is a first for the Uzbeks.

Kulbyte said her team should savour the occasion. "There's always the danger of getting too emotional but it's part of the game. If you don't live and appreciate the moment, then there's no point," she said. "One year ago we dreamed of being here. Then we dreamed about reaching the quarter-finals. "Now it is about achieving our next dream, but to dream without putting in the work does not work. We are happy where we are but we want more."

South Korea are heavy favourites after pipping hosts Australia to top their group and coach Shin Sang-woo is oozing confidence as they zero in on a maiden continental crown. "I feel that we will go into the match in good condition," he said. "We expect them to be compact and organised in defence. We've prepared various attacking options and we are ready to show it in the game." South Korea scored nine times through eight different players in their group games against Australia, Iran and the Philippines.

Kulbyte said their versatility posed a threat and demanded absolute focus from her team. "We have to be organised tactically. They have quality players but we have shown that we can be disciplined and structured," she said.