Vietnam slink into the quarters
Well, if you don't know Vietnam got walloped 4-1 by Japan but still went through as UAE decided to finally turn up (despite already being eliminated) and beat QATAR 2-1 in the other game in Vietnam's group.

The celebrations were uproarious but rather bizarre. Hammered but through to the quarter finals. Outclassed but still standing. Whowouda thunk it? Even better as Australia struggled in their group, Vietnam now avoid them and now head to Bangkok to play Iraq - who knows what to expect in that one. Japan ironically get Australia who are starting to play a bit of ball after thumping the Thais 4-0 (though that score is very flattering). Also tuyet voi, Australia come here to play Japan in what could have been the final. No doubt if the Aussies get knocked out we could also see the great mercurial talents of Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka hitting the tiles on Saturday night.

The Iraqis' tournament is a story in itself (they beat Australia 3-1). Basically a team of exiles, I hear, forced to train away from their homeland for obvious reasons. I have to support the Nam, but it would a bit of a fairytale if old Iraq made the final.

Anyway, Vietnam fans will be heading over to Bangkok ready to party for the weekend. A semi final place up for grabs. The UAE is currently the most popular country in the world around these parts. No one knows what it stands for, no one cares.