Bangkok, Thailand: On Monday, Qatar maintained their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage of the AFC U17 Asian CupTM Thailand 2023 alive by playing Islamic Republic of Iran to a scoreless draw in the matchday 2.   The first half ended goalless, with both teams displaying their defensive prowess and denying their opponents any clear-cut scoring opportunities. Qatar, in particular, showcased a significant improvement from their previous game, where they suffered a 6-1 defeat against Korea. They played with much more confidence and competitiveness, making the contest an exciting one to watch.   Right from the opening whistle, Qatar exhibited a noticeable change in their approach. They pressed higher up the pitch, disrupting Iran's buildup play and forcing turnovers in midfield. The Qatari players displayed great determination and tenacity, constantly challenging for every ball and making it difficult for Iran to find their rhythm.   Qatar's defensive line, which had struggled in their previous match, appeared much more organized and disciplined this time around. They communicated effectively and maintained a compact shape, frustrating the Iranian attackers and limiting their space in the final third.   In possession, Qatar showed improved composure and decision-making. They moved the ball quickly, with precise passing and intelligent movement off the ball. The Qatari players displayed a good understanding of each other's positions, constantly looking for openings to exploit the Iranian defense. Although they did not create many clear-cut scoring opportunities, Qatar's attacking intent was evident.   After the break, the action picked back up where it left off, Iran's right back Andarz should have added another assist for his teammate Taheri in the 59th minute as he charged out of defense and beat two opponents before playing in the latter. Andarz set up both of Taheri's goals in the previous encounter. Taheri took a shot from outside the box that Elsharkawy was able to parry, and later in the half, Elsharkawy saved from Abolfazl Zamani and  Reza Ghandi Pour. Despite waves of white shirts encircling his goal, Qatar's goalkeeper simply refused to be beaten. In the 83rd minute, Taheri wasted another beautiful pass from Andarz by shooting straight at Elsharkawy, and a minute later, Mohammad Askari did the same.   Ali Shahabi, playing in the middle of the defense, made a crucial intervention by deflecting a shot from Amirmohammad Razaghinia when Elsharkawy was incapable to do anything about it.   This means that Korea Republic are assured of a spot in the quarterfinals, while Iran need only draw with the East Asians on Thursday to advance. To keep their tournament hopes alive, Qatar must first defeat Afghanistan with a high margin.