The highlight of the programmes was a speech by The Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Launching Education City Stadium digitally, and in compliance with the protective measures implemented by Qatar, affirms the SC’s commitment to deliver its projects on schedule – despite the current circumstances. The stadium’s successful completion was dedicated to frontline workers who have worked tirelessly during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

But as the clock ticked towards the 1996 Finals in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia were under pressure. Coach Ze Mario had been fired following a disappointing showing at the Gulf Cup and new man Nelo Vingada given a month to prepare his team for the Finals.

Despite the difficulties, the Portuguese coach would lead Saudi Arabia to a record-equalling third continental title, the last time – to date – the country would claim the most prestigious trophy in the Asian game.

Li Ke admits to being apprehensive the first time he was called up for the China national team, when the former Arsenal and Brentford midfielder was included by Marcello Lippi in his squad to face the Philippines in Guangzhou last June.

Former Australia striker Aloisi scored 37 goals in 129 appearances for the club from 2001 to 2005, while IR Iran’s Nekounam, who joined in 2006, would go on to become a fan favourite over two stints and nearly 200 matches for Los Rojillos.

The duo - alongside another former Iranian Osasuna star, Masoud Shojaei - are both in the running for this week’s Asia’s Greatest Players in Spanish Football poll, and according to Aloisi, Nekounam was a highly respected figure at the club.

Last week we presented the candidates for the 2017 edition's best goalkeeper, and now it's time to turn our attention to defenders.

So, here are 14 players in contention for the four places in the backline. Review the nominees and then choose your favourite defenders for this all-star XI in the respective polls.

Indeed, with the Koreans sharing the tournament’s hosting duties alongside regional rivals Japan, much was expected of both Park and the rest of Guus Hiddink’s squad ahead of their campaign against the world’s elite. Neither were to disappoint.

We kicked off the series with a look back at some fabulous free-kicks, before shining the spotlight on memorable long-range efforts. This week, we turn our attention to individual brilliance and review five incredible goals where players have taken matters into their own hands and emphatically produced the goods.

So, enjoy the trip down memory lane and don't forget to vote for your favourite at the bottom of the article!