AFC Asian Cup 2023: Jordan beat Tajikistan, register maiden semi-final appearance

An own goal decided the outcome of this AFC Asian Cup clash.

Jordan advanced to the semi-final of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup after securing a 1-0 victory against Tajikistan in the quarter-final match at Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium on Friday, February 2, 2024. This marks the first occasion where Jordan have progressed to the semi-final stage of the AFC Asian Cup. Previously, they reached the quarter-final stage twice, but had never advanced to the semi-finals.

Tajikistan, generally known for their physical style, repeatedly proved crucial in defending against Jordan’s attacks until they scored an own goal in the 66th minute through Vakhdat Khanonov.

The match began with Jordan making the first attempt at goal within just four minutes of play. However, Tajikistan encountered a setback when their forward, Shahrom Samiev, had to leave the field due to a hamstring injury in the 29th minute.

The first half concluded with neither side scoring a goal, yet Jordan appearing more assured on the pitch in comparison to Tajikistan.

The second half saw a different approach from Tajikistan, who displayed an aggressive and attacking flair from the word go. Alisher Shukurov assumed responsibility in the 52nd minute with an attempt to secure the lead in the match.

Till the 60th minute of the second half, the Jordan players struggled to generate scoring opportunities for their team. However, in the 66th minute, Mahmoud Al-Mardi delivered a corner kick that was met by Abdallah Nasib’s head, albeit only skimming it. The ball then deflected off Khanonov and landed into his own net.

Tajikistan subsequently assumed control of the game by increasing their attacks, although they struggled to penetrate Jordan’s defense, who opted for a defensive strategy after securing the initial goal.

Jordan also had opportunities to take the lead in the game; however, they struggled to maintain possession in the box on several occasions. These instances could have been easily converted into scoring opportunities.

At the end, Tajikistan who made their debut in the AFC Asian Cup this year, concluded their campaign with a 1-0 defeat to Jordan, who will be competing in the semi-final (against winners of the Australia Vs South Korea game) scheduled for February 6.

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