AFC U20 Asia Cup: Australia Secures Final Spot with 2-0 Victory Over Japan
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Synopsis
Australia advanced to the AFC U20 Asia Cup final after a commanding 2-0 victory over Japan in the semi-final held in Shenzhen on February 26, 2025. Their impressive second-half performance secured a clash with Saudi Arabia for the championship title.
Key Takeaways
- Australia's defense was solid throughout the match.
- Musa Toure played a key role in Australia's attack.
- The match saw multiple missed opportunities for both teams.
- Australia scored two goals in the second half.
- The Young Socceroos will face Saudi Arabia in the final.
Shenzhen, Feb 26 (NationPress) Australia showcased an impressive second-half display to overcome Japan 2-0 in the AFC U20 Asian Cup, China 2025 semi-final held at the Baoan Sports Centre Stadium on Wednesday, earning their spot in the final match against Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
Japan started the match strongly, crafting an early chance in the second minute when Hisatsugu Ishii launched a long-range effort that soared over the crossbar. The Japanese side maintained the pressure, with Yotaro Nakajima delivering a threatening cross that was cleared by Jonny Yull, and Rento Takaoka’s setup for Ishii in the 14th minute veering wide of the goal. Australia’s defense remained resolute, with the Young Socceroos needing to endure a stretch of intense pressure.
Musa Toure emerged as a persistent danger down the left wing, but despite his speed and strength, Japan’s Kaito Tsuchiya stood firm. Australia finally created a significant opportunity in the 33rd minute when Toure was unable to convert Alexander Badolato’s long pass, firing high when one-on-one with keeper Wataru Goto. Paul Okon encountered a similar fate in the 38th minute, with his shot easily thwarted by the Japanese backline.
Japan almost found the net in the 43rd minute when Ishii’s deflected pass reached Takaoka, but his attempt went over the bar.
The crucial goal arrived in the 49th minute when Luka Jovanovic delivered a clever pass to free Jonny Yull, who then set up Toure to calmly slot the ball past Goto, giving Australia the lead. Japan pushed back, yet Kazunari Kita’s weak shot in the 54th minute was comfortably saved by Steven Hall, and Yuto Ozeki’s powerful long-range strike hit the crossbar.
Australia cemented their triumph in the 67th minute when Toure intercepted a misplayed pass from Katsuma Fuse, allowing Jaylan Pearman to curl in a spectacular finish. Japan’s final free-kick from Nakajima in stoppage time was narrowly off target as Australia successfully held on for a commendable 2-0 victory, advancing to the final.
