Uzbekistan advanced to the quarterfinals as Group C winners, having defeated Lebanon 3-2, drawn 0-0 with Iran, and beaten South Korea 2-0. Meanwhile, China finished second in Group D after a 1-0 victory over Australia and 0-0 draws against Thailand and Iraq.

In their three most recent encounters, all at the U23 Panda Cup, Uzbekistan secured a 1-0 win and two 0-0 draws against China. Their fourth meeting, held tonight at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium, saw a similar scoreline, with Uzbekistan dominating play.

Uzbekistan (in white) drew 0-0 with China before losing 2-4 in a penalty shootout during the 2026 U23 Asia quarterfinals at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on 17/1/2026. *Photo: AFC*

The Central Asian side's superiority was evident in their 72% ball possession, 8 shots on target from 28 attempts, nearly triple the number of passes, and a 13-1 advantage in corners. However, a goal eluded coach Ravshan Khaydarov's squad due to China's resolute defensive strategy and an exceptional performance from goalkeeper Li Hao.

Starting Lineups:

Uzbekistan: Muratbaev, Dilshod Abdullaev, Behruzjon Karimov, Saidkhon Khamidov, Giyosjon Rizakulov, Tolqunbekov, Bakhromov, Asilbek Jumayev, Khayrullaev, Saidnurullaev, Amirbek Saidov

China: Li Hao, Xu Bin, Yang Xi, Hu Hetao, Umidjan Yusup, He Yiran, Mutellip Iminqari, Peng Xiao, Li Zhenquan, Wang Yudong, Behram Abduweli.

Hieu Luong