U23 China unexpectedly defeated U23 Uzbekistan 4-2 after a penalty shootout (0-0 draw after 120 minutes). U23 China reached the semi-finals of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship without conceding a goal, scoring exactly 1 goal against U23 Australia in the group stage. Coach Antonio Puche's team has a very solid defense, plays disciplinedly. In particular, they own goalkeeper Li Hao who plays extremely excellently.
U23 Uzbekistan launched up to 28 shots, in which many times the ball went into the goal, but Li Hao successfully saved them. In the penalty shootout, Li Hao continued to successfully save an opponent's kick, creating a turning point to help U23 China win.
The U23 Chinese team is very well organized, implements the plan methodically and disciplined. These three points impressed me. I will not discuss the strengths or weaknesses of the opponent team. Their weaknesses need to be analyzed by the U23 Vietnam coaching staff," said coach Ravshan Khaydarov of U23 Uzbekistan.
The strategist of U23 Uzbekistan also praised Li Hao. He said: "He made a great save. He has also saved the team many times in previous matches. We players have taken many shots towards his goal, but the shots are powerless. The level of the U23 Chinese goalkeeper is undeniable and he has a bright future.
Contrary to U23 China, U23 Vietnam is one of the teams that scored the most goals in the tournament with 8 goals, scored by 5 different players. In which, striker Nguyen Dinh Bac scored 3 goals.
In addition to being sharp in attack, U23 Vietnam is also highly appreciated for their defensive ability with 2 clean sheets. Goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien also played very well, although he did not have as many saves as Li Hao.
The U23 China vs U23 Vietnam semi-final match will take place at 10:30 PM on January 20th.
