OMAN 1-0 NEPAL

While an early goal from Al Malki proved decisive, Oman squandered a number of chances to extend their lead, particularly in a dominant second half display.

The Omanis came into the tie as warm favourites, and took the lead when an overlapping Al Malki found space on the left hand side before beating Nepal goalkeeper Arpan Karki with an accurate low finish on 13 minutes.

ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN 3-1 TURKMENISTAN

A first half own-goal proved to be costly for Turkmenistan, as Iran turned on the power in the second half at the Azadi Stadium.

Uzbekistan came into the match with the advantage of playing at home, but the fresh U-23 squad had the pressure to impress in defending their title against a resilient Indian side.

India, who are aiming to make their debut in the Finals, held Uzbekistan back in the opening minutes of the match.

They defended well but as the game looked set to be goalless at the break, a mistake in the box proved to be costly as Uzbekistan were awarded a penalty kick in the 45th minute, with Islomjon Kobilov making no mistake from the spot to break the deadlock.

DPR KOREA 1-0 MONGOLIA

The all-East Asian affair began on a high note as both sides pulled out all the stops for an early advantage.

AUSTRALIA 6-0 CAMBODIA

Four goals from four players in the first half laid the foundation for Australia's 6-0 win over Cambodia, in their bid to return to the Finals for a fourth consecutive time.

Aiden O'neill struck first in the 21st minute to give the Joeys the opening goal they were searching for and from there on, Joseph Champness and skipper Riley McGree made it 3-0 with goals in the 29 and 31st minutes respectively.

Japan 8-0 Macau

Ayase Ueda's hat-trick spurred Japan to their first win of their qualifying campaign in Group I, as they will face Timor-Leste next on Sunday, while Macau will be aiming to bounce back when they take on Myanmar.

The East Asians imposed themselves early in the match and despite having the bulk of possession, the Japanese found it hard to break down their opponents with only a shot on goal.

It was a tightly contested affair as both sides were evenly matched but it was China who had better opportunities upfront and the young Team Dragon finally broke the deadlock at the half hour mark.