Latest U23 Asian Cup standings: Six of the quarterfinalists confirmed, Iran suffers a shocking exit, Japan secures top spot with three straight wins

On January 14th Beijing time, the U23 Asian Cup matches proceeded fiercely, with two group third-round games finishing overnight. Iran was unexpectedly knocked out after losing 0-1 to Lebanon, Uzbekistan shut out South Korea 2-0 in a key battle, Japan defeated Qatar 2-0 to achieve three straight victories and clinch the top spot, and the UAE and Syria played to a 1-1 draw. Consequently, the latest tournament standings have emerged, confirming six quarterfinal places!

In Group B’s third round, Japan secured their second consecutive win and qualified early. Their opponent, Qatar, having lost twice already, was eliminated before this match. A win would guarantee Japan the group’s top position, while Qatar fought for pride. Japan dominated possession throughout, relentlessly bombarding Qatar, who couldn’t even manage a single shot. Japan scored once in each half to win 2-0 without conceding. The gap was enormous; Japan’s three straight wins and clean sheet highlight their strength. Meanwhile, UAE and Syria both had 1 win and 1 draw from the previous two rounds, with UAE leading on goal difference. Thus, their third-round match was a true knockout battle: UAE needed only a draw to advance, while Syria had to win. UAE scored first in the first half, but Syria equalized in the second. However, UAE’s performance afterward was frustrating, missing many chances despite numerical advantage. The match ended 1-1, allowing UAE to advance as group runners-up, while Syria was heartbreakingly eliminated!

Group C was the so-called “group of death.” In the third round, both Iran and Lebanon were unbeaten in two matches, but Lebanon’s two losses meant early elimination. Iran still had hope but needed a win and for South Korea to lose. South Korea indeed lost, overwhelmed by a powerful Uzbekistan side that scored once in each half for a 2-0 victory. However, Iran faltered, failing to capitalize on numerous chances and delivering poor shot quality. They even conceded a penalty, losing 0-1 to Lebanon, the group’s weakest side. This marked Lebanon’s first win and left Iran scoreless after three rounds, handing South Korea the quarterfinal spot while Iran was eliminated!

With six quarterfinalists confirmed — Vietnam, Jordan, Japan (all with three wins), UAE, undefeated Uzbekistan, and South Korea — the strong teams Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Iran are surprisingly out. Two spots remain, and it’s still uncertain who will emerge victorious from Group D. Let’s wait and see!

Written by / Sports Novel