Australia had scored in every game in the group stage but their attacking resolve was tested by an ultra defensive Turkmenistan side and Morgan was relieved with the result.

 

“It was a difficult game for both the players and the coaching staff,’ said Morgan. “We also want to extend our congratulations to Turkmenistan, who not only did very well in the group stage but also did a terrific job for this match, making it very difficult for us to play. We are fully respectful of that, fortunately we progressed."

“Turkmenistan played to our expectations. They played the same way in the group matches. They played with their hearts for 90 minutes to win, so they were true to themselves and were worthy opponents.

“The way the game was played was definitely expected and playing against a team who defend very deep in their own territory, it was always going to be hard to create great chances.

“If you create chances early and score early then it changes the game. But because we were unable to do that, it became a bit more difficult.”

Despite being severely tested, Morgan applauded his team for being able to find the elusive goal. 

“We knew what Turkmenistan could do when they were chasing the game with their commitment and technique. So we had to be able to score from many ways and in the end, it came from a chance from outside the box and that’s good for us.”

Through to their second successive AFC U23 Asian Cup semi-finals, Morgan’s charges will now aim to make their final debut when they play the winners of the Saudi Arabia-Vietnam last eight tie.