U23 South Korea faced off against U23 China in a highly anticipated semifinal match at ASIAD 2026, with both teams aiming for glory. U23 South Korea, the defending champions, sought to protect their gold medal streak, while U23 China aimed to shock the reigning titleholders.

The match kicked off with U23 China taking an early lead in the 22nd minute. Wang Yudong executed a remarkable offensive play, showcasing speed and precision, which culminated in a well-placed shot that found the back of the net, putting U23 China ahead 1-0.

However, U23 South Korea responded swiftly. In the 33rd minute, they equalized through a well-executed corner kick. Lee Young Jun rose above the defense to head the ball into the goal, despite U23 China's goalkeeper Li Hao getting a hand to it. The first half concluded with the score tied at 1-1.

After the break, U23 South Korea took control of the game, pushing for a decisive goal. Their efforts paid off in the 82nd minute when Eom Ji Sung, the captain, delivered an excellent cross that set up Bae Jun Ho for a close-range header, securing the lead for South Korea.

With this crucial goal, U23 South Korea sealed their place in the final, defeating U23 China 2-1. The final score reflected the competitive spirit of the match, with U23 South Korea demonstrating why they are three-time ASIAD champions.

Final score: U23 South Korea 2 - 1 U23 China (Halftime: 1-1)

Goals: Lee Young Jun (33'), Bae Jun Ho (82') for U23 South Korea; Wang Yudong (22') for U23 China.

U23 South Korea's lineup included Kim Joon Hong, Kim Ji Soo, Shin Min Ha, Bae Hyun Seo, Choi Seok Hyun, Hwang Do Yun, Eom Ji Sung, Lee Seung Won, Bae Jun Ho, Lee Hyun Ju, and Lee Young Jun. U23 China's team featured Li Hao, Hu Hetao, Liu Haofan, Zhu Chenjie, Xu Bin, Peng Xiao, Mao Weijie, Yang Xi, Wu Xi, Wang Yudong, and Zhang Yuning.