Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has congratulated Saudi Arabia for winning their maiden AFC U23 Asian Cup™ crown after the Green Falcons defeated hosts Uzbekistan 2-0 in an enthralling final at the Bunyodkor Stadium on Sunday.

Runners-up in 2013 and 2020, Saudi Arabia finally clinched the coveted title with Ahmed Alghamdi and Firas Albrikan finding the back of the net in the final as the Green Falcons kept an impressive flawless defensive record throughout the tournament.

The AFC President said: “On behalf of the Asian football family, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Saudi Arabia for clinching their maiden AFC U23 Asian Cup™ title.

“Saudi Arabia’s consistency and breathtaking performances throughout the campaign is testament to the remarkable efforts undertaken by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation in strengthening the foundations for their future generation of footballers to thrive in the Continent and beyond.”

“We must also praise Uzbekistan for displaying incredible resolve and teamwork in reaching Sunday’s decider and for providing Asia’s passionate fans with a captivating final.”

The AFC President also took the opportunity to recognise the tireless efforts undertaken behind the scenes by the Uzbekistan Football Association (UFA) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) in staging a successful tournament.

Shaikh Salman added: “The AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Uzbekistan 2022 was another clear indication of the AFC’s steady and undeniable road to normalcy, and we must applaud the UFA and the LOC for showcasing great determination in organising a truly memorable spectacle.”

Relive all the thrilling action from the AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Uzbekistan 2022 here.