Play-Off
Bahrain and Uzbekistan, the teams that placed 3rd in Asian Zone, had to play the play-off. The first leg was in Tashkent (Uzbekistan), but FIFA decided that the match must be replayed, after a huge referee error, which, instead of having a penalty retaken for Uzbekistan, awarded a free kick for Bahrain. The replay date is October 8th, and the second leg October 12. Before this match, the last game between these teams was in AFC Asian Cup and was won at penalties by Bahrain, after a 2-2 draw, so the matches are going to be very interesting. The winner will play-off the 4th placed team of the North/Central Americans and Carribbean Zone.

3rd stage analysis

Group A

After the incredible run in 2002 edition, Korea Republic was considered favorite to win the group, but the Taeguk Warriors disappointed their fans, losing points with Maldives, Lebanon and Uzbekistan and suffering defeats from Saudi Arabia in both matches. In the last day of the qualifiers, Saudi Arabia, undefeated played in Korea, with only one point in front, so if Korea would’ve won, they would’ve finished in first position. And Saudi Arabia made a wonderful match, winning with 1-0, and won first position. Another dramatic match was between the other two teams in group, Uzbekistan and Kuwait. The winner would’ve won 3rd place and a place in the play-off. After 1-2 at half-time for Kuwait, Uzbekistan made an extraordinary comeback, winning with 3-2.

Group B

With a good start, with a draw against Iran and a win in Korea DPR, Bahrain managed to rank in front of Korea DPR, and win a place in the play-off. Like in Group A, we had to wait until the last day of matches to see the winner. Japan won at Yokohama and got the first place and Iran second and they are both qualified for the Final Tournament.