China reached the final of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup after 22 years on Tuesday by beating Australia 2-0 in the semi-finals at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The top clash will see the country face arch-rival Japan, which defeated defending champion Uzbekistan 3-2 in penalties. Japan is the most successful team in the tournament with four titles and last won the title in 2023.
In the first semi-final, China drew first blood through Shuai Weihao in the 49th minute when Zhou Yunuo won the ball in the final third and put it in the penalty area. Xie Jin found the insurance goal in stoppage time, firing in from close range after a free kick.
China has already broken the glass ceiling in this Asian Cup, qualifying for the U17 World Cup – the men’s football team’s first global tournament (outside the continental) since 2005.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan almost looked to secure a place in the final when Asilbek Aliev found the net early in the first half. However, a late equalizer from Chimezie Kai Ezemuokwe forced the match into mockery.
The Uzbeks had won the quarter-finals on penalties against South Africa. But this time they finished on the losing side, with Japan winning the shootout 5–3.
China and Japan will play the final of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup on May 22 at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium in Jeddah.
Published on May 20, 2026
