The first semi-final of 2019 Asian Cup sees Iran take on Japan in what is being billed as the clash of two Asian giants. Japan have won five consecutive games by a single goal margin which tells us they are extremely efficient in getting the job done. While Iran have been far more ruthless compared to their Japanese counterpart and head coach Carlos Queiroz would be pleased by his team’s showing in UAE so far. The former Manchester United manager has dismissed the claim that Iran are favourites for the tie and maintained both teams start off as equals.

Iran were dealt a blow when Mehdi Taremi was suspended for the semi-final after picking up his second yellow card against China. The forward is an instrumental part of Carlos Queiroz set up and his absence could hurt Iran. They will however welcome back Vahid Amiri back into the fold who can play the role of a second striker. Goalkeeper Alireza Bieranvand has kept 17 clean sheets in 20 appearances so far for Iran and is clearly a man with special talent. All eyes would be on him as the Japanese attacking line tries to score past him for the first time in the tournament. AFC Asian Cup 2019 Schedule in PDF: Download Asia Cup Football Full Timetable in IST With Fixtures, Matches, Team and Venue Details.

Japan have perfected the art of winning ugly in UAE and one of the key attribute of the team that has helped them achieve this is absorbing pressure. Veteran defender Maya Yoshida is the calming influence in the backline for his nation. The Southampton man has been in fine form giving no space to the opposition attackers. The return of Yoshinori Muto after serving a one game suspension is another positive for the team. He will be straight away drafted in playing eleven as Japan are more balanced with him in the team. It is a tough game for both the teams but Iran look likely to emerge as the first finalist of the 2019 Asian Cup come the end of the game.

When is Iran vs Japan AFC Asian Cup 2019 Football Match? Know the Date, Time and Venue Details

The AFC Asian Cup 2019 semi-final 1 between Iran and Japan on January 28, i.e. Monday, is scheduled to begin at 07:30 p.m (IST), and it will be played at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi,United Arab Emirates.

Where to Watch the Live Telecast of Iran vs Japan, AFC Asian Cup 2019 Football Match?

Star Sports Network is the official broadcaster of AFC Asian Cup 2019 in India. Hence, the live match telecast of Iran vs Japan will be available on Star Sports' channels. The fans in south-east Asian regions and Australia will be able to see live match action on Fox Sports Network.

How to Watch the Free Live Streaming Online and Football Score Updates of Iran vs Japan, AFC Asian Cup 2019 Football Match?

Since Star Sports Network is the official broadcaster of AFC Asian Cup 2019 in India, the fans will be able to watch the live action through Star Sports' live streaming service, i.e. Hotstar.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 28, 2019 05:15 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).