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Iran book Asian Cup semifinal spot with comeback victory against Japan

By Nguyen My       FEB. 3, 2024

Iran came back with a strong performance in the second half and sealed their victory against favorites Japan with a penalty shot in injury time.

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  • 90'+9
    End of the match: Iran 2, Japan 1

    Iran come from behind with a spectacular second half performance to win in the dying minute of the game and book their well deserved spot in the semifinal.

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    Iran celebrate their second goal. Photo by Reuters
  • 90'+8

    Iran make their first three substitutions of the game. Japan's Takuma Asano is also introduced on the pitch.

  • 90'+6
    Goal for Iran

    Captain Jahanbakhsh converts from the spot with a thunderous strike to the top right corner. This goal is very likely to seal the victory for Iran today.

  • 90'+4
    Penalty for Iran

    Itakura's clumsy tackle on Rezaeian has given Iran a golden opportunity for Iran to win the game in the very last minute.

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    Itakura's tackle on Rezaeian (number 13) inside the box. Photo by Reuters

  • nhat-ban-3-jpeg-4502-170696640-5750-9212

    Iran constantly threatnen Japan's goal in the second half. Photo by Reuters
  • 90'

    Two Japan players fall to the ground after some powerful duels, but there is no whistle from the referee.

  • 87'

    Suzuki and Azmoun both go for the ball, and the Japan goalkeeper is quicker and able stop a dangerous attack.

  • 83'

    Ezatolahi's beautiful volley from Jahanbakhsh cross is saved by Suzuki.

  • 76'

    Japan are committing more fouls on Iran players, opening up opportunities for Iran to get their second goal out of the freekicks.

  • 75'

    Mitoma is very quick on the left wing, but the tireless Jahanbakhsh manages to tackle the ball away.

Japan, world's number 17 on FIFA ranking, have 57% chance of advancing to the semifinals, compared to Iran's 43%, according to sports sites' calculations.

At the Asian Cup 2019 semifinal, Japan defeated Iran 3-0.

The winner of Saturday game will play either Qatar or Uzbekistan in the semifinal. The other match is between Jordan and South Korea.

 
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