The East Asian side, seeking a record-extending 13th title, produced a below par performance with head coach Lee Chang-won admitting the quarter-final win against Uzbekistan - which had also required spot-kicks - had taken a toll on his players.
“I would like to congratulate Saudi Arabia for reaching the final,” said Lee. “They did really well in this game. Our team lost because of our fitness level. .....
AET | 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia 0️⃣-0️⃣ Korea Republic 🇰🇷 (3️⃣-2️⃣ on pens)
— #AsianQualifiers (@afcasiancup) February 26, 2025
2018 champions, Saudi Arabia will play for the trophy on Saturday!#AFCU20 | #KSAvKOR pic.twitter.com/ZKa4sOxA0c
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