But it is as tantalising as it is unexpected, first for the history that will be created whoever should lift the trophy into the Doha sky, but secondly for the showdown between two of the tournament\u2019s best and most exciting players in Akram Afif and Mousa Al-Taamari.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both quiet and humble off the pitch, as players they are the opposite. They are exhibitionists. Entertainers. Players that, when they receive the ball, make you sit up and edge a little further forward on your seat in anticipation of what could come next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And at this tournament, something usually does come next. Whether it\u2019s Afif\u2019s solo stunner against Iran, or Al-Taamari\u2019s mazy run and finish through the heart of the Korean midfield, it\u2019s been a tournament to remember for the duo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their respective semi-final performances, in which both turned in man of the match displays, offered a teasing glimpse as to what to expect on Saturday night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Afif, the Asian Player of the Year in 2019, was Qatar\u2019s \u2018everywhere man\u2019 once again. While he starts on the left, such in is talent and importance, he has a licence to roam almost anywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One moment he will be on the left and cutting inside, the next he\u2019s dropping deep to pick up the ball on the edge of his own area. It makes him incredibly tough to mark, a dangerous thing given the quality contained within his boots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n