Qatar sealed their spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 knockout stage with a 1-0 victory over China, thanks to a spectacular volley from Hassan Al-Haydos. With the win, Qatar finished at the top of Group A with nine points, while Tajikistan secured their spot in the next round by beating Lebanon 2-1. China, on the other hand, finished with only two points and are unlikely to move on. Despite their disappointing World Cup performance, Qatar has been perfect in the Asian Cup, winning all three group stage games without conceding a goal. In another group match, Tajikistan made history by advancing to the knockout stage for the first time.