HANGZHOU — The Saudi Olympic national team saw their journey in the Asian Games football competition come to an end as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Uzbekistan in the quarterfinals.
Uzbekistan took an early lead with a goal in the 24th minute, further strengthening their position with another before the first half concluded. Despite Mohammed Maran narrowing the gap with a goal in the 65th minute, it was insufficient to alter the outcome as Uzbekistan secured their place in the semifinals.
In the final moments of the match, the Saudi Green Falcons made several attempts to equalize the score, but luck was not on their side. Substitute Abdullah Reda received a red card for simulation inside the penalty area, earning his second yellow card just moments before the match's conclusion.
The Saudi team, under the guidance of national coach Saad Al-Shehri, featured Ahmed Al-Jubai in goal and a defensive lineup comprising Mohammed Abu Al-Shammat, Mohammed Al-Yami, Rayan Hamed, and Zakaria Hawsawi.
The midfield was anchored by Awad Al-Nashri, Faisal Al-Ghamdi, Saad Al-Nasser, Musab Al-Juwayr, and Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, with Mohammed Maran playing as the lone striker upfront.
