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AFC U20 Asia Cup: Saudi Arabia scrape through to final on penalties against Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia secured their place in the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Korea Republic
Published on Feb 26, 2025
By IANS
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- SHENZHEN — Saudi Arabia secured their place in the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Korea Republic, following a goalless draw after 120 minutes in their semi-final clash at the Shenzhen Youth Football Training Base Centre Stadium on Wednesday.
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- The match was a tense affair, with both teams struggling to break the deadlock during regular and extra time, leading to a nail-biting shootout.
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- Korea Republic, seeking a record-extending 13th title, started with a surprise move, benching in-form striker Kim Tae-won. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s coach Marcos Soares made a notable change, giving Saud Al Tumbkti a start, with center-backs Saud Harun and Mohammed Barnawi both suspended.
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- The match began at a fast pace, with Saudi Arabia’s Amar Al Yuhaybi testing goalkeeper Hong Seong-min with a half-volley. However, both teams soon settled into a defensive approach, unwilling to take risks. The first clear chance came in the 29th minute, as Yousef made a crucial save from Son Seung-min’s effort. Saudi Arabia then came close with a deflected shot from Bassam Hazazi, but it narrowly missed.
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- In the second half, Korea Republic had a golden opportunity to take the lead, but Jin Tae-ho missed an open chance in the 53rd minute. Despite efforts from Tae-won and Yoon Do-young, Saudi Arabia’s goalkeeper Hamed Yousef kept his side in the game with crucial saves, forcing the match into extra time.
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- The additional 30 minutes saw no breakthrough, with Saudi Arabia’s Nawaf Al Ghulaymish clearing a late effort off the line. In the shootout, Yousef emerged as the hero, saving two penalties, including Kim Gyeol’s attempt. Ali Al Mahdawi scored the decisive spot-kick, sending Saudi Arabia into Saturday’s final, where they will face either Australia or Japan.
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