Saudi Arabia secured their place in the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Korea Republic, following a tense goalless draw after 120 minutes in their semi-final clash at the Shenzhen Youth Football Training Base Centre Stadium on Wednesday.

The highly anticipated encounter saw both teams struggle to break the deadlock, with solid defensive displays and missed opportunities defining the contest. Ultimately, it was Saudi Arabia who held their nerve in the shootout, emerging victorious thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Hamed Yousef.

A Tactical Battle Ends in Stalemate

Korea Republic, aiming for a record-extending 13th title, made a surprise decision to bench in-form striker Kim Tae-won, a move that raised eyebrows before kick-off.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s head coach Marcos Soares had to make crucial adjustments, handing Saud Al Tumbkti a start in midfield as center-backs Saud Harun and Mohammed Barnawi were unavailable due to suspension.

The match began at a brisk pace, with Saudi Arabia’s Amar Al Yuhaybi testing Korean goalkeeper Hong Seong-min early with a well-struck half-volley. However, as the game progressed, both teams adopted a more cautious approach, reluctant to take unnecessary risks.

Korea Republic carved out the first clear opportunity in the 29th minute when Son Seung-min found space in the box, but his effort was well blocked by Yousef. Moments later, Saudi Arabia responded with a close attempt from Bassam Hazazi, whose deflected shot narrowly missed the target.

The second half saw Korea Republic create the best chance of the game in the 53rd minute, when Jin Tae-ho found himself unmarked inside the box but shockingly missed an open goal.

The Koreans continued to press, with Tae-won and Yoon Do-young testing Saudi Arabia’s resilience, but Yousef remained composed, pulling off a string of crucial saves to keep his side in the contest.

Defensive Grit Leads to a Nerve-Wracking Shootout

As extra time commenced, both teams struggled to break through disciplined defensive lines. Saudi Arabia’s Nawaf Al Ghulaymish came to his side’s rescue in the dying moments, clearing a goal-bound effort off the line to deny Korea Republic a late winner.

With neither team able to find the net, the match headed into a decisive penalty shootout.

Korea Republic took first, but Yousef immediately made an impact, saving an early attempt. As the shootout unfolded, tension soared when Kim Gyeol stepped up for Korea Republic, only to see his shot stopped by Yousef once again, effectively tilting the balance in Saudi Arabia’s favor.

Ali Al Mahdawi took on the responsibility of the final spot-kick and calmly slotted the ball past Hong Seong-min, sealing a 5-3 shootout victory for Saudi Arabia and sparking jubilant celebrations.

Saudi Arabia Awaits Final Opponent

With this victory, Saudi Arabia now advances to Saturday’s final, where they will face either Australia or Japan. The young Falcons will be aiming to capture their fourth AFC U20 Asian Cup title and continue their impressive run in the competition.

Meanwhile, Korea Republic will be left to reflect on missed opportunities and a heartbreaking exit, as their quest for a record-extending championship comes to an end.