History made in Jeddah! After a tense 0-0 draw against 2018 champions Uzbekistan, China held its nerve to win a penalty shootout 4-2 and book a spot in the AFC U23 Asian Cup semifinals for the first time ever. 🤩
Uzbekistan started strong, dominating possession (75%) and firing off 11 shots to China’s two in the first half. But China’s goalkeeper Li Hao rose to the occasion with key saves, including a spectacular diving stop on Ravshan Khayrullaev’s long-range effort in the 61st minute. 🙌
Neither side could break the deadlock in 120 minutes, so it all came down to spot-kicks. Both teams converted their first two attempts, but in the third round, Uzbekistan’s Mukhammad Karimov saw his penalty smash off the crossbar. Li Hao then saved Dilshod Abdullaev’s kick, setting the stage for Wang Bohao to slot home the decisive penalty and spark wild celebrations on the Chinese bench. 🎉
With this win, China not only snapped a three-match losing streak against Uzbekistan in this tournament but also made history by reaching the semifinals. Next up: a showdown with Vietnam for a chance to play in the final. Get ready, football fans—this ride is just getting started! ⚽️🔥
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
