Hwang led by example as the East Asians edged Tajikistan 1-0 to earn a place in the last four and, in the process, confirm their ticket to next year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland.

With one major achievement already under their belts, the 19-year-old believes more is yet to come from Korea Republic – starting with a win over Qatar.

Jeon Se-jin’s goal late in the first half saw Chung’s charges progress to set up an enticing last four encounter with Qatar at the Pakansari Stadium in Bogor on Thursday.

Having edged one game closer to the continental title his side last won in 2012, the 49-year-old tactician was naturally delighted by what he had witnessed.

The four have confirmed their places in the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup Poland but there is still everything to play for as they chase Continental glory.

The result brings Australia's campaign to an end, and sets up a semi-final showdown between Saudi Arabia and Japan in Bogor on Thursday.

Second half goals to Feras Al Brikan and Saud Abdulhamid ultimately made all the difference for the West Asians, after Nathanial Atkinson had cancelled out Turki Al Ammar's early opener just before half-time.

A goal in the first half from Jeon Se-jin helped the Koreans through to the last four on a day they were rarely troubled by their Central Asian opponents who, nevertheless, bowed out of the tournament with their heads held high.

Head coach Chung Jung-yong’s charges will now meet Qatar in the semi-finals on Thursday at the Pakansari Stadium in Bogor and can begin planning for next year’s global extravaganza in Poland.

With the Indonesians defending in numbers, there seemed no clear path to goal for Japan in the opening 40 minutes of the match, but that all changed when Higashi sent a 35-yard rocket into the top right corner of Muhamad Riyandi's net.

The Sanfrecce Hiroshima youngster, 18, reflected on the memorable goal, declaring it the best of his career, for now.

An incredible game saw the West Asians take a 2-0 lead, before being forced to rely on Ahmed Suhail’s 87th minute equaliser to take the game into extra-time. Four further goals in the additional half an hour subsequently saw the 2014 champions edge closer to a Continental title showdown and, in the process, seal a place at next year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Whilst delighted with Qatar’s World Cup spot at Poland in 2019, Pinheiro is already eyeing more success for his talented young charges – starting with the semi-final clash against either Korea Republic or Tajikistan.