Saudi Arabia set up date with Japan

BANGALORE, Nov 3: It took a penalty for Saudi Arabia to get on course for a berth in the quarterfinals, but at the final whistle there was no doubt as to who the superior team was.
The Saudis progressed to a last-eight meeting with Japan, defeating Vietnam 2-0 in their final Group D match in the AFC Youth Championship on Friday.
Vietnam needed a victory to progress, but they were pegged back early when Saudi skipper Jufain Al Albishi stepped up to convert a penalty.Mohammed Al Bishi made it 2-0 for the Saudis at the death, but by then the writing was on the wall for Vietnam as a draw would not have sufficed.
Saudi Arabia finished level on points with Iraq, but Iraq took top spot in the group, thanks to a superior goal average. It means the Saudis will play Japan in the quarterfinals on Monday, a clash they aren't looking forward to with zeal.
Iraq also advanced to the quarterfinals with a convincing 3-0 win over Malaysia. In Kolkata, China and Australia sailed through as well.