In an electrifying U23 Asian Cup third-place playoff that doubled as an Olympic qualifier, Iraq triumphed over Indonesia with a dramatic win, securing their place in the upcoming Paris Olympics.
The match at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium was filled with tension, excitement, and heart-stopping moments, culminating in jubilant celebrations for the Iraqi side, while leaving Indonesia with another chance in the upcoming playoff against Guinea.
These were the updates as Iraq beat Indonesia 2-1 in extra time at the Asian Cup on Thursday, May 2:
Iraq beat Indonesia 2-1 in extra time in the third-place playoff at the 2024 AFC U23 Asian Cup.
Iraq also secure the third and final automatic berth at the Paris Olympics.
Ivar Jenner scored the opening goal at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha, Qatar for Indonesia before Zaid Tahseen equalised for Iraq. Ali Jasim netted Iran’s second in extra time.
Iraq lost 2-0 to Japan in the semifinal, having overcome Vietnam 1-0 in the quarterfinals.
Indonesia beat South Korea on penalties in the quarterfinals, but lost 2-0 to Uzbekistan in the last four.
Japan face Uzbekistan in the final on Friday.
Indonesia will be disappointed to suffer defeat after taking the lead in the first half.
They fought hard, but it wasn’t enough to see them through.
They miss out on automatic Olympic qualification, but have a second chance to qualify for the Summer Games.
The Indonesians will face Guinea in an Olympic playoff match next week in Paris.
.jpg)
