The semifinal match between U23 Uzbekistan and U23 Japan at ASIAD 2026 proved to be a thrilling encounter, showcasing intense competition and skill from both teams. U23 Uzbekistan started the match strongly, taking the lead in the 9th minute with a goal from Bakhromov, who capitalized on a well-placed pass from Khamidov, leaving Japan's defense vulnerable.

Despite Uzbekistan's early advantage, Japan struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, failing to register a single shot on target. The Japanese side, under the guidance of coach Go Oiwa, made significant changes to their lineup, having replaced all 11 starters from their previous quarterfinal match against North Korea. As the game progressed, Uzbekistan maintained their composure and nearly doubled their lead in the 28th minute, but Urinboev's free-kick narrowly missed the goal.

In the second half, Japan's performance improved as they began to apply pressure on Uzbekistan's defense. Substitute Yokoyama nearly equalized in the 60th minute with a close-range shot that was brilliantly saved by Uzbekistan's goalkeeper Muratbaev. Japan continued to create opportunities, but their attempts by Michiwaki, Shimamoto, and Umeki were thwarted by Muratbaev's exceptional goalkeeping.

With only two minutes left in regular time, Japan finally found the back of the net. Ishibashi scored with a powerful header from a cross by Kosugi, leveling the match at 1-1 and sending the game into extra time.

During extra time, both teams had chances to win, with Japan's Ozeki hitting the post and Umeki missing a close chance. As the match remained tied, it proceeded to a penalty shootout. After both teams converted their first five penalties, the score was tied at 4-4. The shootout continued into sudden death, where Japan's Kosugi scored, while Uzbekistan's Khushvaktov hit the crossbar, sealing Japan's victory at 9-8 in penalties.

Japan's win sets up a final against defending champions U23 South Korea, a rematch of their previous encounters in the ASIAD finals in 2018 and 2022, both of which Japan lost. The final promises to be an exciting clash as Japan seeks redemption.

Final Score: U23 Uzbekistan 1 - 1 U23 Japan (Japan wins 9-8 on penalties)

Goals:

• U23 Uzbekistan: Bakhromov (9')
• U23 Japan: Ishibashi (88')

Match Statistics:

• Shots on Target: Uzbekistan 5, Japan 5
• Possession: Uzbekistan 33%, Japan 67%
• Fouls: Uzbekistan 10, Japan 8
• Yellow Cards: Uzbekistan 0, Japan 2
• Red Cards: Uzbekistan 0, Japan 0
• Offside: Uzbekistan 0, Japan 1
• Corners: Uzbekistan 2, Japan 6