By Abdellatif Sharaa
KUWAIT: Japan became champions of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Kuwait 2022 that was held in Kuwait from September 27th until October 8th. Japan defeated Iran 3-2 in the final match that was held on Saturday. This is the 4th title for Japan as they won in 2006, 2012, 2016.
President of Asian Football Confederation Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al-Khalifa has lauded Kuwait for hosting a successful Asian Futsal Championship. He appreciated the efforts of Kuwait Association and the organizing committee. "After four years, we saw the return of Futsal in Asia due to solidarity of member federations, and this is clear evidence that the game is in good condition and on its way to recovery," he said.
Sheikh Salman Al-Khalifa congratulated Japan for winning the Championship. He also commended the performance of Iran during the entire tournament. The match was up to expectations. Japanese closely defended all parts of the court, yet the Iranians were able to escape the Japanese tactic and scored the first goal in the 15th minute. The goal was scored by Saeed Abbasi.
Japan did not take long before scoring the equalizer in the 16th minute. In the second half, Japan scored their second goal in the 27th minute. Iran tried to equalize but received the third goal when Abbasi attempted a pass in mid court, but it went into the empty goal by mistake in the 40th minute. Iran's second goal in the final minute did not matter as the match ended.