Saudi Arabia’s Talal Haji Shines in U-17 Asian Cup
Saudi Arabia’s U-17 team has secured a place in the quarterfinals of the U-17 Asian Cup, thanks to a 2-0 win over Tajikistan. The star of the show was 15-year-old striker Talal Haji, who scored both goals in the second half. The young Green Falcons have looked solid at the back and have been getting forward whenever possible, with six points in the bank after two wins from two in Group C. The stakes are high, with the four teams that reach the semifinals also booking spots at the World Cup later this year.
Saudi Arabia vs Tajikistan
Knowing that Australia’s 5-3 win over China earlier in the day meant that a win would guarantee a place in the quarterfinals, Saudi Arabia started brightly and were soon asking questions of the Tajik backline in the hope of taking control of the game. There were half-chances and blocked shots for the most part but, just after the half-hour mark, the boys in green started to take the pressure up a level.
Saudi Arabia’s First Half Chances
Following a corner, Nawaf Al-Jaadani came close to adding to the goal he scored against Australia, but his fierce shot from outside the area was just a little too high with the goalkeeper struggling. Four minutes before the break, they came even closer to getting the opener. Ramez Al-Attar lifted the ball smartly over the defence to find Nawaf Al-Bishri steaming in on the left side of the area but the forward had his head in his hands after side footing against the post from close range.
Tajikistan’s Near Miss
Despite being on top for much of the half, Saudi Arabia very nearly went in behind at the break as Tajikistan counter-attacked at speed. Masrur Gafurov picked up the ball from a rash backpass, raced between two defenders but, with just the goalkeeper to beat from inside the area, pushed his shot wide.
Saudi Arabia’s Second Half Goals
At the start of the second half, Saudi Arabia were soon back on top and finally broke the deadlock with a very well-worked goal just after the hour. Saad Al-Muthary sent over a beautiful cross from the left and there was Haji, rising high above the defenders to send a perfect header down into the bottom corner. Both teams pushed forward knowing the next goal would be decisive but it was Saudi Arabia who sealed the win in the 90th minute. Haji picked up a long pass out of defence, muscled Dilovar Dzhamshedzoda off the ball just inside the Tajik half, went around the goalkeeper and rolled the ball into the empty net.
Looking Ahead
Saudi Arabia finish the group stage against China on Thursday. The young Green Falcons have been impressive so far in the tournament, with Haji shining as their star player. With a place in the quarterfinals secured, coach Abdel Wahab Al-Harbi can start preparing for the knockout stage. The team will be hoping to continue their winning streak and secure a spot at the World Cup later this year.