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Final - Players to watch: Qatar
Doha: After 50 intense matches, the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ is approaching its climax with Jordan and Qatar facing off in the final at the Lusail Stadium on Saturday.
Standing in Jordan's way for a first ever AFC Asian Cup title are defending champions Qatar,  who have continued from where they left off in the UAE 2019 edition. 

Seeking a second title, the-AFC.com shines the spotlight of three players who will be crucial to Qatar's hopes on Saturday.

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Akram Afif
Afif has been in exceptional form, scoring five goals and providing three assists. His pace, skill and vision have created havoc for opposing defences throughout the tournament. 
 
Afif played a paramount role in helping his team lift the trophy five years ago, registering a record 10 assists, and will surely be fired up for another standout performance. 
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Hasan Al Haydos
Al Haydos has played the skipper's role to perfection with his technical prowess, exceptional vision and strong leadership qualities.
 
The 33-year-old can score too, as stunningly seen in the group stage match against China PR, with futher goals against Palestine and Uzbekistan. Qatar will be counting on their veteran talisman to lead them to victory again.
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Almoez Ali
Unlike 2019, Ali has not been firing in the goals at Qatar 2023 but there is no disputing the vital role he plays in the squad.
 
The forward's workrate is second to none, as he is equally adept in leading attacks and falling back to defend. More importantly, he scores when he has too - as seen in the semi-final win over Islamic Republic of Iran.