Japan secured the first spot in the 2026 AFC U‑23 Asian Cup semi‑finals with a disciplined 2‑1 win over the United Arab Emirates, joining Vietnam, South Korea and China. The four East Asian teams will clash in Riyadh on 21 January, each vying for the championship and the crucial Olympic berths for Paris 2024.
2026 AFC U‑23 Asian Cup Overview
The seventh edition of the AFC U‑23 Asian Cup took place in Saudi Arabia from 6 January to 24 January, featuring 16 qualified nations. As the continent’s premier under‑23 competition, it also serves as the Asian qualifying pathway for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, raising the stakes for every knockout match.
Semi‑Final Schedule and Key Match‑ups
The semi‑finals will be held back‑to‑back at King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh on 21 January.
- Japan vs Vietnam – 18:00 local time (GMT+3)
Japan, defending champions from 2024, aim to impose technical superiority over a Vietnamese side that stunned the tournament by defeating Saudi Arabia. - South Korea vs China – 21:00 local time (GMT+3)
A classic East Asian showdown pitting South Korea’s high‑pressing discipline against China’s revitalised attacking approach under a new head coach.
What’s at Stake?
The winners advance to the final on 24 January, while the losers contest a third‑place playoff that still decides an Olympic qualification slot. The top three finishers will earn places at the Paris 2024 Games.
Implications for Asian Football
The semi‑final line‑up, entirely composed of East Asian teams, signals a shift in youth football power from traditional West Asian dominants to a region investing heavily in academies, coaching education, and player development.
Japan’s Youth Pipeline
Japan’s early semi‑final berth underscores the strength of the J‑League youth system. Midfielder Takumi Yamashita (21) starred in the 2‑1 win over the UAE, drawing senior‑team attention and highlighting a seamless transition from U‑23 to the senior national side.
Vietnam’s Rise
Vietnam’s “Golden Generation” has captured global interest, especially after a 1‑0 upset of Saudi Arabia. Coach Philippe Troussier’s tactical discipline and captain Nguyen Quang Hai’s leadership have made Vietnam a serious contender for a historic victory and an Olympic spot.
South Korea’s Consistency
South Korea entered as the tournament’s most experienced side, reaching three of the last four semi‑finals. Forward Lee Jae‑sung scored four goals in the knockout stage, showcasing the blend of physicality and technical skill that defines the Korean youth program.
China’s Rebuilding Effort
After a disappointing 2022 campaign, China has poured resources into scouting and grassroots initiatives. Forward Li Wei delivered a crucial brace against Iraq in the quarter‑finals, embodying the renewed optimism surrounding Chinese youth football.
Olympic Qualification Outlook
Three Olympic berths are on the line: the two finalists automatically qualify, while the third‑place winner secures the final ticket. Japan and South Korea are favored to qualify, but Vietnam and China view the tournament as a gateway to their first senior Olympic appearance in decades.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Riyadh’s 68,000‑seat stadium is expected to be near capacity for both semi‑finals, reflecting growing fan interest across Asia. The outcomes will influence senior national team selections, future academy investments, and ultimately determine which nations will march onto the Olympic stage in Paris.
