Saudi Arabia have become the first Asian team, after hosts Japan, to book their place at the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Tokyo 2020.
The Green Falcons recorded a 1-0 victory over Uzbekistan to progress to the final of the AFC U-23 Championship Thailand 2020, with substitute Nasser Al Omran's deflected strike from outside the box on 88 minutes proving the difference.
It is the first time Saudi Arabia have qualified for the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament since Atlanta 1996.
Two more Asian sides will join Saudi Arabia and Japan: the second AFC U-23 Championship finalist and the winner of the third-place playoff.
Australia and Korea Republic face each other in the other remaining semifinal later on today, while the third-place off will be contested on Jan. 25.
The Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Tokyo 2020 will begin on July 23, with the gold medal match being played on Aug. 8 at International Stadium Yokohama — the venue of the 2002 FIFA World Cup Final.
SOURCE : SAUDIGAZETTE
