Iran Stuns Japan with 96th-Minute Winner, Secures Asian Cup Semifinals

Iran secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in the Asian Cup quarter-finals, earning a spot in the semi-finals. Alireza Jahanbakhsh scored a crucial 96th-minute penalty, completing a stunning comeback for Iran.

Despite being behind at halftime, Iran managed to turn the game around. Hidemasa Morita had given Japan the lead in the first half. However, Mohammad Mohebi equalized for Iran ten minutes into the second half, shifting the momentum in their favor.

In the dying moments of stoppage time, Kou Itakura fouled Hossein Kanaanizadegan in the box, leading to the decisive penalty. Jahanbakhsh calmly converted from the spot, securing Iran’s place in the semi-finals.

Iran, missing the suspended Mehdi Taremi, displayed a physical approach from the start. Feyenoord winger Jahanbakhsh had an early chance that narrowly missed the target.

Japan initially struggled with Iran’s physicality but managed to take the lead in the 28th minute when Morita capitalized on a defensive lapse. Iran had opportunities to level the score before halftime but couldn’t convert.

In the second half, Iran dominated, with Mohebi scoring the equalizer. They continued to press, with near misses from Mohebi and Sardar Azmoun, before the dramatic late penalty sealed their victory.

Iran will now face the winner of the match between hosts Qatar and Uzbekistan in the semi-finals, keeping their hopes of winning their first Asian title since 1976 alive. South Korea and Jordan will compete in the other semi-final.