The match between U20 Indonesia and U20 Uzbekistan in Shenzhen (China) tonight (February 16) was incredibly thrilling. In the 21st minute, reigning champions Uzbekistan took the lead with their opening goal.
U20 Indonesia also had moments of brilliance during this match (Photo: AFC).
In this play, Muhammadali Urinboev received a pass from his teammate Saidkhon Khamidov and headed it into the net, giving the Central Asian team a 1-0 lead.
Unwilling to suffer another loss at the tournament, which would mean an early elimination, U20 Indonesia launched aggressive attacks.
In the 23rd minute, the young team from the land of a thousand islands found the equalizer. Jens Raven of Indonesia received the ball inside the penalty area, shielded it well, and then fired a shot past Uzbekistan’s goalkeeper, leveling the score at 1-1 for the Southeast Asian side.
Despite playing well in the first half, the young Indonesian players struggled to maintain their stamina in the second half, conceding more goals in the latter period.
U20 Indonesia officially eliminated after their second straight defeat (Photo: AFC).
In the 47th minute, Daler Tukhsanov delivered a perfect assist to Haydarov, who executed a stunning backheel finish, increasing Uzbekistan’s lead to 2-1.
The reigning champions didn’t stop there. In the 63rd minute, Saidumarkhon Saidnurullayaev moved effortlessly through Indonesia’s defense and scored with a header, sealing a 3-1 victory for the Central Asian squad.
With the 3-1 win over Indonesia, Uzbekistan secured an early spot in the quarterfinals alongside Iran. In another Group C match earlier today, Iran crushed Yemen 6-0. Both Iran and Uzbekistan now have six points each, while Indonesia and Yemen remain point-less as Group C enters its final round.
With these results, Indonesia and Yemen have been officially eliminated. The upcoming match between U20 Indonesia and U20 Yemen on February 19 will only hold ceremonial significance.
