Aren inoue

AFC U20 Asian Cup China: In a thrilling AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 quarter-final, Japan triumphed over the Iran in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 4-3 after a 1-1 draw at the Shenzhen Youth Football Training Base Centre Stadium on Sunday.

The victory not only secured Japan's place in the semi-finals but also guaranteed their spot in the FIFA U20 World Cup Chile 2025.

Iran started the match on the front foot, creating early pressure on Japan’s defense. In the third minute, Mahan Sadeghi’s effort sailed wide after a close-range attempt, and Japan’s goalkeeper Rui Araki nearly fumbled Esmaeil Gholizadeh’s cross. Iran’s persistence paid off in the fifth minute when Reza Ghandipour seized a rebound inside the box, giving Iran a 1-0 lead.