Experienced Saudi Arabia is likely to prevail at the Asian Cup final over Iraq, whose best tournament result is the fourth place back to 1976.
Under coach Jorvan Vierie, Iraq has created a fairy tale so far after overcoming South Korea in a tense penalty shootout.
Iraq does have several talented players such as striker Younes Mahmoud, but the team as a whole does not play the best soccer.
It stunned Australia with a 3-1 victory but was held to a disappointing 0-0 draw with Oman followed by a characterless 2-0 win over Vietnam.
The ups and downs exposed Iraq's lack of experience and stability, which are important factors in the final clash.
Though Iraq players have the motivation to win for their war-torn country, the lack of experience in big events will put them in disadvantage during the collision with Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, the Saudis have played the best soccer at the tournament, cruising smoothly into the final.
Saudi Arabia, who have now made six of past seven finals, is much more experienced than its rivals.
The west Asian soccer powerhouse also has all the firepower up front. Forward Malek Maaz is clearly one of the best strikers in Asia.
But Saudi Arabia also revealed its weakness at center backs and goalkeeper during the semi-final against Japan.
Teams with the best defence usually win the major championships in big stage. The performance of defenders and goalkeepers will have a big influence on the outcome.
The final match is to kick off at 19:35 (local time) at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on Sunday.
Source: Xinhua
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