Uzbekistan U23 Top Group, Reach AFC Quarterfinals

Uzbekistan’s under-23 national team advanced to the quarterfinals of the AFC U23 Asian Cup as Group C winners following a convincing 2-0 victory over South Korea in the final round of group-stage matches.

The tournament, featuring under-23 national teams from across Asia, is currently being held in Saudi Arabia, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

In the decisive match played on January 13, goals from Behruz Karimov and Saidumarkhon Saidnurullayev secured the win for Uzbekistan. The result lifted Ravshan Haydarov’s side to seven points, guaranteeing first place in the group and progression to the last eight.

In the other Group C fixture, Lebanon recorded a surprise 1-0 victory over Iran. That outcome benefited South Korea, who finished second in the group with four points and also advanced to the knockout stage. Lebanon ended the group in third place with three points, while Iran finished bottom with two points.

Uzbekistan are set to play their quarterfinal match on January 17. Their opponent will be determined from Group D, where China, Australia, Iraq, and Thailand remain in contention, with all four teams still capable of qualifying for the playoffs.

A total of 16 national teams are competing in this edition of the U23 Asian Cup, divided into four groups. Unlike some previous tournaments, this competition does not offer Olympic qualification spots, prompting several teams to field squads that are not at full strength.

First held in 2013, the U23 Asian Cup has seen Japan become the most successful nation, winning the title twice, including at the most recent tournament. Iraq, Uzbekistan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia have each lifted the trophy once.