Japan beat Iran 4-3 on penalties in AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 quarter-final. Victory secured Japan’s place in the semi-finals and guaranteed their spot in the FIFA U20 World Cup Chile 2025. Iran started the match on the front foot, creating early pressure on Japan’s defense. Iran had a chance to regain the lead in the 77th minute, but Amirmohammad Razzaghini’s effort went over the bar. Japan came close to taking the lead before halftime, with Aren Inoue’s shot being blocked and Rion Ichihara’s header going over thebar. In the shootout, Iran missed their first two attempts, and despite Arsha Shakouri saving Japan’s third penalty, Rion. Ichihara held his nerve to score the decisive penalty, sending Japan through to the semis. The match went into extra-time, where both teams pushed hard for the winner. The game ended 1-1, with Iran scoring the only goal of the game in the second half.
