The Subway Young Socceroos achieved their third successive victory overnight, concluding the group stage with a 2-1 triumph over host nation China in the AFC U20 Asian Cup, thus securing the top spot in Group A.
Melbourne City talent Medin Memeti was given a starting position by head coach Trevor Morgan for the encounter against second-placed China. He opened the scoring in the 24th minute, with midfielder Louis Agosti quickly adding a second goal just 90 seconds later.
During a hectic first half-hour in Shenzhen, China responded with a goal from Kuai Jiwen, but the Young Socceroos managed to maintain their lead, primarily thanks to a remarkable performance from Macarthur’s Alexander Robinson in goal. This match marked their third straight win in the tournament, having already triumphed over both the Kyrgyz Republic and Qatar.
Finishing at the top of their group, Morgan’s team is set to face the runner-up from Group B in the Quarter-Finals, which is expected to be either Iraq, Saudi Arabia, or Jordan on Saturday night.
“It was one of the best feelings I’ve had in a while, scoring my second goal for my country,” Memeti reflected on his goal and the victory after the match.
MUST READ: One day, TWO games! 18-year-old shares incredible story behind A-Leagues debut
“Even though I didn’t feature in the first few matches, I felt it was beneficial to get my first game and score a goal, which was a great feeling.
He went on to say: “I think it was a solid beginning. We just continued to apply pressure, pushing them towards long balls, and I believe the team did exceptionally well to stay compact and resilient.”
Nine graduates from the Isuzu UTE A-League were present in the starting lineup in China, including Adelaide’s Jonny Yull and Fabian Talladira, Macarthur Bulls’ Alexander Robinson and Oliver Randazzo, Perth’s Jaylan Pearman and Zach Lisolajski, Sydney FC’s Tiago Quintal, and Brisbane’s Lucas Herrington, along with Memeti. Additionally, Frans Deli, Josh Inserra, and Luka Jovanovic made appearances from the bench during the match.
In an added boost for the squad, should the Young Socceroos advance past their next opponents on Saturday night, they will also secure their passage to the FIFA U20 World Cup and a place in the semi-finals.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
