March 3 – Australia’s rising stars etched their names into history, claiming their first-ever AFC U20 Asian Cup title with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over three-time winners Saudi Arabia in Shenzhen, China.
With the final locked at 1-1 after extra time, goalkeeper Steven Hall emerged as the hero, denying Bassam Hazazi from the spot as the Young Socceroos triumphed 5-4 on penalties at the Baoan Sports Centre Stadium.
It was a fitting end to a flawless tournament for the Socceroos, who stormed through the competition unbeaten. Their journey included a commanding 2-0 semi-final win over Japan, but Saudi Arabia proved to be their toughest challenge, pushing the final to the limit before falling just short.
Defending champions Uzbekistan saw their reign come to an end in the quarter-finals, bowing out to South Korea in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw. The South Koreans went on to lose on penalties to runners-up Saudi Arabia in the semi-finals.
The Saudis also knocked out hosts China in the quarter finals, whilst the Aussies took out five-time winners Iraq in a five-goal thriller at the same stage.
AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said: “The AFC U20 Asian Cup was another spectacular showcase of Asia’s rising stars and on behalf of the entire Asian football family, I would like to convey our collective and heartfelt congratulations to Australia on winning the coveted Continental crown.
“We must also praise Saudi Arabia for their remarkable achievement in reaching the final and the progress of both teams is indeed testament to the commitment of Football Australia and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation in developing and producing future icons of our great game.
“Along with Japan and Korea Republic, we wish all four teams the very best of success at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile and we are confident that they will stand proud with the world’s elite.”
The 42nd edition of the Continental youth showpiece was held in China for only the second time since its inception in 1959 and the AFC President also took the opportunity to applaud the Chinese Football Association and the Local Organising Committee for their hosting.
“Structured competitions are the lifeblood of development and the AFC’s Vision and Mission has outlined our ambitions to ensure we continue to organise top level competitions for our Member Associations to raise their standards on the pitch,” added Shaikh Salman.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1743073538labto1743073538ofdlr1743073538owedi1743073538sni@g1743073538niwe.1743073538yrrah1743073538
