Bangkok: Iraq's impressive display booked them a spot in the 2017 AFC U-20 Futsal Championship semi-finals, following a narrow 1-0 victory over Japan on Monday. ?
From the outset both sides showed respect by playing cautiously, aware of the other’s potential to counter. Koto Uematsu’s attempt on goal in the 11th minute came closest to handing Japan the lead but Iraq’s custodian Zaher Mahdi was at hand to deflect. When in possession, Ali Talib’s side tried to break down their opponent’s defence by luring them into their half, and the East Asians finally cracked when Hamzah Abbas scored a minute before the half-time break in Bangkok Arena.
Ryuji Suzuki’s side returned with a more offensive approach, but were left to rue their missed chances. Iraq held their line whilst looking for opportunities for a counterattack. With two minutes left on the clock, Japan were forced to employ their power play tactics but to no avail and the final whistle sounded to hand Iraq their ticket to the semi-final.
Iraq: ABBAS 19’ ?
Photo: AFC
Source: the-afc.com