#AFCU23 - Semi-final showdowns confirmed

Sun, 18 Jan, 2026

#AFCU23 - Semi-final showdowns confirmed

Jeddah: The stage is set for the semi-finals of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ following the conclusion of the thrilling last eight stage on Saturday.

The semi-finals promise to be equally exciting, with two former champions and two sides aiming to lift the trophy for the first time in the fray.

Q-final: Korea Republic defeat Australia to stay on course

Sun, 18 Jan, 2026

Q-final: Korea Republic defeat Australia to stay on course

Jeddah: Korea Republic edged Australia 2-1 to book their AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ semi-final spot at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on Saturday.

The hard-fought quarter-final victory means Korea Republic make a return to the last four stage after missing out in the previous two editions, with defending champions Japan awaiting them in Tuesday’s semi-final.

Q-final: China PR edge Uzbekistan on penalties to create history

Sun, 18 Jan, 2026

Q-final: China PR edge Uzbekistan on penalties to create history

Jeddah: China PR defeated Uzbekistan 4-2 on penalties to advance to the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ semi-finals, with their last eight tie ending in a goalless draw after extra time at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium on Saturday.

Goalkeeper Li Hao starred for China PR in the match and subsequent shoot-out, saving Dilshod Abdullaev’s spot-kick as his side set up a semi-final meeting with Vietnam on Tuesday, their first appearance at that stage.

Dinh Bac does it again for Vietnam

Sat, 17 Jan, 2026

Dinh Bac does it again for Vietnam

Jeddah: Nguyen Dinh Bac is fast proving to be the man with the golden touch for Vietnam after notching his second goal at the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ to help his team reach the semi-finals on Friday.

For the second match running, Dinh Bac was summoned from the bench to great effect, adding to his personal tally after his virtuoso winner against Saudi Arabia saw Vietnam finish top of Group A.

Replacing Le Viktor with 10 minutes left in the first half, Dinh Bac only needed four to make his mark in the quarter-final against the United Arab Emirates, setting up Vietnam’s opener for Nguyen Le Phat as the Southeast Asian side went on to win 3-2 in extra time.

Araki credits team effort for Japan’s shoot-out triumph

Sat, 17 Jan, 2026

Araki credits team effort for Japan’s shoot-out triumph

Jeddah: Rui Araki refused to accept the plaudits despite his penalty shoot-out saves taking Japan into the semi-finals of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ on Friday.

The custodian - who was beaten for the first time in the tournament when Jordan took the lead through Ali Azaizeh - showed great confidence and agility in the shoot-out to stop the West Asian side’s first and fourth spot-kicks as Japan triumphed 4-2. 

#AFCU23 - Vote for your favourite Group Stage goal

Fri, 16 Jan, 2026

#AFCU23 - Vote for your favourite Group Stage goal

Jeddah: The group stage of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026™ didn't disappoint with a fine serving of goals.

Fans were treated to long range screamers, team goals and tap ins as the continent's rising talent produced their best.

The-AFC.com invites you - the fans - to vote for the goal which you think was the best in the group stage.