Uzbekistan U-17 reach AFC Asian Cup semifinals

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan’s U-17 national football team has reached the semifinals of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup, which is being held in Saudi Arabia, after defeating South Korea in a tense match decided by a penalty shootout.

South Korea took the lead in the 22nd minute through Moon Ji-hwan, who put his team ahead. Uzbekistan responded in the 41st minute when Ahrobbek Ravshanbekov leveled the score after taking advantage of a mistake by goalkeeper Moon Yu-no.

Ravshanbekov completed his brace in first-half stoppage time, dribbling past several defenders on the right flank and finishing from close range in the 45+2 minute to give Uzbekistan the lead.

In the second half, South Korea replaced their goalkeeper. In the 80th minute, Uzbekistan’s defense managed to prevent a dangerous header from distance, but in the 87th minute An Sun-hyeon equalized, bringing the match back into balance.

The regular time ended 2-2. In the penalty shootout, Uzbekistan were more accurate and won 5-3, securing their place in the semifinals of the tournament.

In the semifinal, Uzbekistan will face Japan. The match is scheduled for 19 May.