I would prefer and hope Saudi Arabia has following teams in the Group: Saudi Arabia IR Iran Anyone from either Australia OR South Korea China Oman Anyone from Lebanon OR Vietnam Want Saudi Arabia to avoid being in the same group comprising Japan, Iraq, Syria as these sides are dangerous. Also, good to see that UAE and Saudi Arabia will not be in the same group this time as both will have the chance now to qualify from separate group Between Australia & South Korea, would prefer Saudi Arabia to play against Australia, and between Lebanon & Vietnam, would prefer Saudi Arabia to play against Lebanon. But if the other team comes in the group then shouldn't be of much difference as they are equal to other side.
What I really like is for Iran to not be placed in a group with Saudi Arabia, among a host of reasons because that will strip Iran of its right to play its home games at home. Otherwise, while I somehow feel Iran will in fact draw Oman, I would kind of prefer we avoid Oman as well since they are coached by Bronco (who has long experience coaching in Iran, including as ex-Iran national team coach and ex coach of Persepolis FC). p.s. While Iran have a great record against S.Korea, I think its time for both Iran and S. Korea find themselves in different groups. Besides, we have not not played Australia since our memorable match against them in 1997 in Melbourne. A game between the two sides is long overdo.
My preferences for the draw for my nation Pot 1 Iran We haven't played Iran since 1997 and Japan has been in our WCQ group for every world cup since we joined AFC Pot 3 UAE We had both these teams in our group last time. I think the Saudi's are the slightly stronger of the two. Pot 4 China PR Another opportunity to annoy the Chinese Government. Pot 5 Oman Syria pushed as too close last time. Pot 6 Lebanon Vietnam seem to be getting a few very good results in recent times and look like they are on the up. In the end it really doesn't matter. We will find it tough whoever we draw especially since it seems we wont be having any home games.
I just want Iran gets drawn with Australia and UAE from pots 2 and 3. Regard pots 4, 5, and 6, It really does not matter to me.