SHENZHEN - The 2025 AFC U-20 Asian Cup served up thrilling quarterfinal matches this weekend, with host nation China falling to Saudi Arabia and Korea Republic edging out defending champions Uzbekistan to secure their spot in the semifinals.
On Saturday, China faced Saudi Arabia, where substitute Amar Alyuhabi scored a dramatic last-minute goal, clinching the game 1-0 for the visitors. With this defeat, China missed out on qualifying for the prestigious 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup scheduled to take place in Chile later this year. The decisive moment came deep in injury time when Alyuhabi fired home from a tight angle after receiving a precise cross from Talal Haji, beating the Chinese keeper to the bottom right corner.
Despite dominating possession with 59%, China's young squad struggled to convert their chances. Head coach Dejan Djurdjevic fielded what he believed was his strongest lineup, but it proved insufficient against the Saudi side. A missed penalty also hampered China's efforts; after winning the spot-kick for a foul on Wang Yudong, Liu Chengyu's attempt was saved by the Saudi goalkeeper. Earlier, Wang himself came agonizingly close to putting China ahead, hitting the far post with his right-footed shot.
Saudi Arabia's approach to the match was notable, as they opted to bench several key starters, including Rakan Alghamdi. Their tactical decision bore fruit, as the substitutes made impactful contributions. With Alyuhabi's heroics, Saudi Arabia marches on, aiming for glory and positioning themselves for the upcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup—a tournament where the top four teams of the AFC U-20 Asian Cup gain entry.
Earlier on Sunday, Korea Republic advanced to the semifinals with a nail-biting penalty shootout victory over Uzbekistan, concluding with a score of 3-2 following a 3-3 draw at the end of extra time. The match showcased both teams' tenacity, with Korea initially surging to a 3-1 lead before Uzbekistan rallied late to equalize, forcing the game to penalties.
Korea Republic’s captain, Kim Tae-won, along with six other key players, returned to the starting lineup, making their presence felt early on. Uzbekistan struck first, with Ashilbek Jumaev's fortuitous header from a corner kick finding the net just 18 minutes in. Korea quickly responded, first through Shin Min-ha's equalizer and then two additional goals through Tae-won and Lee Geon-hee, pushing them 3-1 up by the 56th minute.
Yet, the defending champions weren't finished. Abdugafur Haydarov scored two late goals, leveling the match at 3-3 and drawing the game to extra time. Tension mounted as neither team could find the net during the added period, leading to the fateful penalty shootout.
Korea Republic's goalkeeper, Hong Seong-min, emerged as the hero of the shootout, successfully saving two penalties and securing his team's place for both the semifinals against Saudi Arabia and the FIFA U-20 World Cup. With this victory, Korea Republic continues its pursuit of the prestigious AFC U-20 Asian Cup title for the 13th time, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament's perennial powerhouses.
The high stakes of the AFC U-20 Asian Cup not only indicate the fierce competition among Asia's best young footballing nations but also highlight the pathway these players are forging toward greater international recognition, with the clouds of uncertainty clearing just enough for some to glimpse the glittering promises held within the World Cup.
Both matches underscored the unpredictable nature of knockout football, where hopes hover on the brink until the final whistle. Fans now look forward to more action as the tournament progresses, with the spotlight firmly upon the upcoming clashes.