Iraq edge Vietnam 1-0, set up semis clash with Japan

AL WAKRAH: Iraq secured their spot in the semifinals of the AFC U23 Asian Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Vietnam at Al Janoub Stadium on Friday.

The crucial moment arrived in the 64th minute when Ali Jasim converted a penalty kick, sealing Iraq’s first semifinal appearance since 2016.

Despite Iraq’s dominance in possession, Vietnam displayed resilience, with Nguyen Van Truong coming close to scoring late in the first half. However, Iraq’s defense held firm, denying Vietnam any clear chances.

The match saw both sides trading attempts after the break, with Iraq’s Al Mosawe and Vietnam’s Van Khang threatening the opposing goalkeepers. However, it was Nihad’s breakthrough behind Vietnam’s defense that led to the decisive penalty, confidently converted by Jasim.

As the game entered stoppage time, Vietnam’s hopes of a comeback were dashed when Nguyen Manh Hung received a red card after a VAR review for a foul on Jasim, sealing Iraq’s victory.

With this win, Iraq advances to face Japan in the semifinals, joining Indonesia and Uzbekistan in the last four of the tournament.