Riffa: A look back at history and rarely has the AFC U-19 Championship seen two teams with a completely contrasting past in a semi-final. Japan, with 36 appearances and six runners-up medals to boast were paired with Vietnam, who were making their first-ever semi-final appearance in just seven attempts at Bahrain 2016.
Those looking to define the encounter need to look no further than Vietnamese coach Hoang Anh Tuan who labelled the Japanese as their ‘strongest challenge’ to date. His astute judgement was proven right on the night as Japan produced a glorious performance to once again assert their dominance.
Though the Japanese were a collective threat, it was No14 Shunta Nakamura who proved to be the brightest star as his brace, whcih sealed Japan's place in the final after a convincing 3-0 win over the Southeast Asian side.
“I am really happy to have contributed to my team’s victory with my two goals today. I did play against Iran but I was not satisfied with my performance in that game. I was desperate to make amends and improve my performance. I am happy that the coach gave me the chance today in this important match and I am pleased with my team’s performance as well,” the teenager told the-AFC.com.
Blessed with immaculate positioning and a poacher’s instinct for goal, the teenager, who was featuring in his second start of the competition, was elated for his contribution, but was modest when describing his performance.
“My first goal today was lucky. Before the game, my coach told me to concentrate on the penalty area and pounce on any opportunity that came my way. I followed his instructions and I was fortunate to be rewarded tonight.”
With ten changes from their quarter-final victory against Tajikistan on Monday, Japan’s victory also showcased the depth of the squad, which Nakamura believes puts them in prime position to finally break their championship drought when they face Saudi Arabia on Sunday.
“The entire team is very excited to play in the final. We would like to recover tomorrow and work hard a day later in training to be ready for the final. We know Japan have never won this title but we don’t think about the past. We want to look ahead and achieve the best result.
“Our team has been playing good football throughout this competition and we hope to continue in the final as well.”
Photo: AFC
Source: the-afc.com