JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia scored a crucial 2-1 win over Iran in their opening Group A match of AFC Youth Championship tournament which is being held at the Prince Muhammad ibn Fahd Stadium in Damman.
The players did not disappoint the local supporters and were first to score when Muhammad Abu Sab’an converted from the spot in the 22nd minute when an Iranian defender handled the ball in the box.
Iran got the equalizer soon when they too were awarded a penalty. Iran went for the match-winner in the second half and exerted pressure on the Saudi defense while the hosts relied on their swift counter attacks.
Nawaf Al-Abed got the winning goal five minutes before time when he neatly headed the ball from inside the penalty area to the left hand side of the Iranian keeper following a perfect cross from the flank.
Earlier in the same group, Japan crushed Yemen 5-0 in a one-sided match. Japan top the group with three points followed by Saudi Arabia also with three points. Iran and Yemen have still to earn their points.
In Group B, South Korea defeated Syria by a solitary goal while UAE got the better of Iraq 2-1.
In today’s matches, Jordan will face Uzbekistan in the opening match of Group D while Australia will take on Thailand in the other match of this group.
In Group C matches, North Korea will face Lebanon and China will clash with Tajikistan.
