Uzbekistan will look to widen the gap on their Matchday Six opponents Syria to 7 points when the sides go head to head today in Malaysia.
Uzbekistan are just two points behind group leaders Iran and one off Korea Republic, but know a defeat would loosen their grip on the third-place spot that guarantees a continental play-off and a last chance at World Cup qualification.
With Iran playing Qatar, and Korea Republic facing China both in hard away matches, Uzbekistan knows the win will increase their chances for automatic berths.
And Syria will go into the game with confidence having held both Korea Republic and Iran to scoreless draws at their temporary home in Malaysia as they bid to mount a challenge for one of the top three positions.
Syria will be without Alaa Al Shbli, however, with the defender serving a one-match suspension. While Uzbekistan will be without Vitaliy Denisov due to injury.
