score football magazine

asian cup 2007

Asian Cup 2007
Asian Cup Final

Final
in Indonesia

Iraq conquer Asia (Iraq 1 Saudi Arabia 0)
War-stricken Iraq showed unity and determination to win the 2007 Asian Cup, beating Saudi Arabia in the final. Iraq were worthy winners of this match allowing Saudi Arabia very few chances. Taiseer Al Jassam came closest for Saudi Arabia on the hour-mark forcing Noor Sabri into a flying save, but 2 minutes later Al Mosailem in the Saudi goal had to make 2 saves in quick succession to deny Younes Mahmoud and Nashat Akram. Younes Mahmoud scored the winner for Iraq beating the Saudi Keeper with a header at the far post from a well delivered corner in the 71st minute and could have netted another 5 minutes later, but failed to run the ball past the advancing Al Mosailem. In the remaining minutes Saudi Arabia could not pose any serious threats and the final whistle sealed a fairytale triumph for Iraq who lifted their first ever major trophy by winning the 2007 Asian Cup.
Iraq win asian cup
Younes Mahmoud heads in Asian Cup winner for Iraq

Third place
in Indonesia

South Korea win third spot (South Korea 0 Japan 0) 6-5 on penalties
South Korea gained automatic qualification to the 2011 Asian Cup by beating Japan and finishing 3rd in this year's tournament. Both keepers had made 2 good saves from free kicks and long-range shots until the balance was upset in the 56th minute when the Koreans were reduced to 10 men with Kang Min Soo being sent off for a second yellow card. Manager Verbeek and 2 of his assistants were also dismissed for displaying their displeasure. Lee Woon Jae kept Korea in the match with several vital saves to force another penalty shoot-out. With all penalties being converted, the diving Lee Woon Jae lifted his right arm to fist Japan's 6th penalty to safety and decide the match in South Korea's favour.


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