In a nail-biting AFC Asian Cup quarterfinal, Captain Son Heung-min’s last-minute penalty and extra-time free-kick secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback win for South Korea against Australia. The two-time champions are now on the path to reclaiming the continental title for the first time since 1960, setting up a showdown with Jordan in the semifinals.
Klinsmann’s Encouragement and Socceroos’ Early Lead
Ahead of the match, South Korea’s head coach, Jurgen Klinsmann, expressed his desire for his team to reach the tournament’s end. This motivation echoed in the thrilling quarterfinal against the 2015 champions, Australia. The Socceroos, starting strong with energy and fluent transitions, took an early lead through Craig Goodwin’s left-footed volley in the 42nd minute.
South Korea’s Persistence and Son Heung-min’s Heroics
Despite a solid defense led by towering center-back Harry Souttar, South Korea pushed higher in the second half, attempting to equalize. The breakthrough came in injury time when Son Heung-min’s determined run led to a penalty, converted by Hwang Hee-chan, forcing the game into extra time. The star forward for Tottenham Hotspur, Son, then showcased his brilliance with a trademark free-kick, securing South Korea’s place in the next round.
Jordan’s Historic Entry to Semifinals
In another historic twist, Jordan secured their first-ever semifinal berth with a 1-0 victory over Tajikistan. Center-back Abdallah Nasib’s header in the 66th minute proved decisive, propelling the West Asian team forward.
The AFC Asian Cup, featuring 24 teams, promises more excitement as the tournament unfolds from January 12 to February 10.
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