Saudi Arabia survived an Uzbekistan onslaught to win their Asian Cup quarter-final 2-1 on Sunday, setting up a last-four clash with fellow three-times champions Japan.
Yasser Al Qahtani gave the Saudis the best possible start by putting them ahead in only the third minute. After soaking up heavy pressure, the Saudis went 2-0 up in the 75th minute when Ahmed Al Mousa strode into the box and confidently clipped the ball home.
Uzbekistan grabbed a lifeline when substitute Pavel Solomin pulled one back with eight minutes left, but the Saudis held on to secure their semi-final spot.
In another match in Kuala Lumpur, South Korea beat Iran 4-2 on penalties after a gruelling 0-0 draw.
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