Synopsis
On February 23, 2025, Japan faced Iran in a breathtaking AFC U20 Asian Cup quarter-final held in Shenzhen. After a 1-1 draw, Japan won 4-3 in penalties, earning a spot in the semi-finals and securing their place in the FIFA U20 World Cup Chile 2025. A match filled with intense moments and standout performances.Key Takeaways
- Japan secured a thrilling win against Iran in penalties.
- Both teams were tied 1-1 after regular and extra time.
- Rion Ichihara scored the decisive penalty for Japan.
- This victory guarantees Japan a place in the FIFA U20 World Cup Chile 2025.
- Arsha Shakouri was pivotal for Iran with numerous saves.
Shenzhen, Feb 23 (NationPress) In an exhilarating AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 quarter-final, Japan emerged victorious against Iran in a nail-biting penalty shootout, clinching a 4-3 win following a 1-1 stalemate at the Shenzhen Youth Football Training Base Centre Stadium on Sunday.
This triumph not only secured Japan's position in the semi-finals but also ensured their qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup Chile 2025.
Iran kicked off the match strongly, putting early pressure on Japan’s defense. In the third minute, Mahan Sadeghi missed a close-range opportunity, and Japan’s goalkeeper Rui Araki nearly mishandled Esmaeil Gholizadeh’s cross. Iran capitalized on their momentum in the fifth minute when Reza Ghandipour scored off a rebound inside the box, taking a 1-0 lead.
Japan quickly regrouped, leveling the score in the 30th minute with Kose Ogura's long-range shot that deflected off Amirmohammad Razzaghini and found the net.
Before halftime, Japan nearly took the lead, but Arsha Shakouri made critical saves to maintain Iran's position. In the second half, Japan kept pressing, yet Shakouri continued to shine, blocking several attempts.
The match proceeded to extra time, where both teams fought hard for a decisive goal. Eventually, the game went to penalties after neither side could score. Iran missed their first two penalties, and despite Shakouri saving a third for Japan, Rion Ichihara scored the winning penalty, propelling Japan to the semi-finals.
