In a dramatic conclusion to the U17 Asian Cup group stage, host nation Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan played out a wild 5-5 draw on May 13, with Saudi Arabia still claiming first place in Group A to book their spot in the quarterfinals.
Both teams entered the match with identical 6-point records, having won their first two matches and already secured early passage to the knockout rounds. Saudi Arabia held the edge on goal difference and were looking to maintain their perfect defensive record – having scored six goals without conceding – while Tajikistan showcased gritty resilience and sharp counterattacks.
The match began with Saudi taking control early. In the 13th minute, Tamim set up Yahya to open the scoring. Just five minutes later, Dasari assisted Shamrani to double the lead. Tajikistan responded through Anvarzod in the 22nd minute, but Shamrani struck again for Saudi in the 28th minute. Bouri extended the lead further in the 34th minute, before Mahktumov pulled one back for Tajikistan five minutes later.
After halftime, Anvarzod scored again for Tajikistan in the 50th minute to make it 4-3. Faisal restored Saudi’s two-goal cushion in the 55th minute off a Navaf assist. However, Tajikistan refused to buckle. Sanginov scored in the 84th minute to cut the deficit, and deep into stoppage time, Mirakhmatov equalized from Syovush’s assist in the 95th minute to complete the comeback.
Despite being held to a draw, Saudi Arabia finished top of Group A on goal difference, while Tajikistan secured second place. Both teams advanced to the U17 Asian Cup quarterfinals and also earned qualification for the U17 World Cup.