Kaito Koizumi’s first half goal proved decisive with Japan moving within a match of not only lifting the trophy for a record-extending third time but also to become the first team to emerge champions in consecutive editions, with China PR their opponents in the final on Saturday.
Head coach Go Oiwa made five changes to the side that had started against Jordan in the quarter-finals with Shuto Nagano, Koizumi, Yudai Shimamoto, Haruta Kume and Yutaka Michiwaki coming in while Korea Republic opted for the same 11 who opened their last eight tie against Australia. .....
𝗙𝗧 | 🇯🇵 Japan 1️⃣-0️⃣ Korea Republic 🇰🇷
— #ACFutsal2026 (@afcasiancup) January 20, 2026
Japan edge a tense semi-final battle to book their place in the #AFCU23 Final with a hard fought victory!#JPNvKOR pic.twitter.com/wxErJS2U1t
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