Tonight, Beijing time, the second quarter-finals of the U23 Asian Cup started. Australia defeated Syria 1-0 in overtime and successfully reached the semi-finals, only one step away from being qualified to participate in the Olympics. The two sides reached a draw in the 90-minute civil war in this game. In overtime, Australia was killed by Toure and met Saudi Arabia in the semi-finals, while the dark horse of this game, Syria fell down with a bang.
Australia performed well in the group stage. They achieved an unbeaten record of 1 win and 2 draws, defeating the host Thailand and qualifying as the first in the group; Syria became a big surprise in this game. They tied Qatar with two goals behind in the first game, and reversed the strong Japanese team 2-1 in the second round, qualifying as the second in the group, staged the fourth miracle.
The strength of both sides in this game was equal. After the game started, Australia took the lead and Najalin's inward shot was slightly off. Then Modukustad headed the ball and was saved by the Syrian goalkeeper. Syria then began to counterattack, Bari's single-handed opportunity was saved, Koe's inward shot was blocked, and the two sides tied 0-0 in the first half.
In the second half, although Australia had the advantage in the ball possession rate, Syria was close to scoring. The shots of Amin and others threatened Australia's goal. In the final stage, both sides were already very tired. The players kept cramping and falling to the ground, unable to break through the opponent's goal, and finally tied 0-0 in regular time. Both sides entered overtime, which was the first overtime game in this U23 Asian Cup.
In the 102nd minute of overtime, Australia O'Neal sent a straight pass, and Toure scored a goal with a single shot from the near corner, helping Australia break the deadlock. In the end, Australia defeated its opponent 1-0 and successfully entered the semi-finals. As long as it wins another game, it can qualify for the Olympics. The fourth-tier team Syria fell in overtime, which was enough to be admired by the onlookers. This team has shown outstanding strength and its future prospects are also optimistic.
