Uzbekistan came into the match with the advantage of playing at home, but the fresh U-23 squad had the pressure to impress in defending their title against a resilient Indian side.

India, who are aiming to make their debut in the Finals, held Uzbekistan back in the opening minutes of the match.

They defended well but as the game looked set to be goalless at the break, a mistake in the box proved to be costly as Uzbekistan were awarded a penalty kick in the 45th minute, with Islomjon Kobilov making no mistake from the spot to break the deadlock.

ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN 3-1 TURKMENISTAN

A first half own-goal proved to be costly for Turkmenistan, as Iran turned on the power in the second half at the Azadi Stadium.

DPR KOREA 1-0 MONGOLIA

The all-East Asian affair began on a high note as both sides pulled out all the stops for an early advantage.

AUSTRALIA 6-0 CAMBODIA

Four goals from four players in the first half laid the foundation for Australia's 6-0 win over Cambodia, in their bid to return to the Finals for a fourth consecutive time.

Aiden O'neill struck first in the 21st minute to give the Joeys the opening goal they were searching for and from there on, Joseph Champness and skipper Riley McGree made it 3-0 with goals in the 29 and 31st minutes respectively.

Japan 8-0 Macau

Ayase Ueda's hat-trick spurred Japan to their first win of their qualifying campaign in Group I, as they will face Timor-Leste next on Sunday, while Macau will be aiming to bounce back when they take on Myanmar.

The East Asians imposed themselves early in the match and despite having the bulk of possession, the Japanese found it hard to break down their opponents with only a shot on goal.

It was a tightly contested affair as both sides were evenly matched but it was China who had better opportunities upfront and the young Team Dragon finally broke the deadlock at the half hour mark.

THAILAND 4-0 INDONESIA

Indonesia started strongly and held the majority of possession for the first 20 minutes with Thailand relying on counter attacks as Supachai Jaided looked dangerous on the ball.

However, the Young Garuda fell behind a minute later after Shinnaphat Leeaoh found the back of the net connecting TO Worachit Kanitsribumphen’s free-kick to give Thailand a 1-0 lead at half-time.