China ended a 28-year wait for an Asian Games football medal by clinching the bronze at the Aichi-Nagoya games after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Uzbekistan. The thrilling contest concluded with China winning 4-3 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
Goalkeeper Li Hao emerged as the hero for China, making two crucial saves during the shootout to secure the team’s first medal in men’s football at the Asian Games since 1998. China’s previous achievements in the event include a bronze in 1978, a silver in 1994, and another bronze in 1998.
The match saw China taking an early lead in the 15th minute when Hu Hetao capitalized on an exchange with Kuai Jiwen to score confidently. However, Uzbekistan equalized just before halftime through Sardorbek Bakhromov, setting the stage for a competitive second half.
China regained the lead eight minutes into the second half courtesy of a powerful strike from Wang Yudong, who found the top corner from the edge of the penalty area. Despite Zhang Yuning hitting the post in an attempt to extend China’s lead, Uzbekistan maintained their pressure and leveled the score in the 89th minute with a goal from Shodiyor Shodiboyev, following an initial save by Li Hao.
With the match proceeding directly to penalties due to the absence of extra time in the bronze-medal match, Li Hao’s performance proved decisive. His two saves during the shootout ensured China’s return to the podium, marking a significant achievement for the team after their semifinal defeat to South Korea.