With Vietnam's 3-2 victory over the UAE, the U23 Asian Cup semifinalists are set: West Asia is completely eliminated, and the Chinese team faces Uzbekistan.

On January 17th Beijing time, the U23 Asian Cup quarterfinals saw two matches end first. Japan survived a tense penalty shootout 5-3 over Jordan, and Vietnam scored a decisive goal in extra time to beat the UAE 3-2. Thus, Japan and Vietnam have claimed two semifinal places in this competition, while all West Asian teams have been wiped out, which is quite unusual. Tonight, the Chinese national team will appear, under huge pressure to break into the semifinals!

Japan vs. Jordan. Japan, the tournament favorite with three wins and no goals conceded, faced Jordan in the quarterfinals. Japan encountered strong resistance as Jordan played well, matching Japan back and forth. In the first half, Jordan scored with their only shot on target, while Japan equalized in the second half with their sole shot on goal. The match went into extra time after a fierce battle. During extra time, Jordan missed two clear chances to score, and the game proceeded to penalties. Japan executed their spot-kicks flawlessly, scoring every attempt, while Jordan missed twice. There was a memorable moment when Jordan’s goalkeeper saved a penalty and celebrated early, but the ball bounced off the crossbar and went in, adding drama. Ultimately, Japan held firm to secure their fourth consecutive win with a 5-3 shootout victory, advancing to the semifinals!

Vietnam vs. UAE. Vietnam, undefeated in three games, faced the UAE, the group runner-up, in a high-scoring contest. Both teams were evenly matched. Vietnam scored first in the 39th minute, but the UAE quickly equalized three minutes later, ending the first half at 1-1. In the second half, Vietnam took the lead again in the 63rd minute, but the UAE responded within five minutes to level the score once more. Neither side could find the winner in regulation time, leading to extra time. Vietnam scored again in extra time to clinch a narrow 3-2 victory over the UAE, achieving their fourth straight win and causing the complete elimination of West Asian teams, which was truly satisfying. Vietnam’s progress has been remarkable, showing strong passing, individual skills, and team coordination!

Tonight at 7:30 PM prime time, the Chinese team will face a do-or-die battle against Uzbekistan. Only a win will secure a semifinal spot. The pressure is immense, and the opponent is very strong. It’s all or nothing now—may the bravest prevail. Let’s watch and see!

Written by/Ti Tan Novel