Jordan Advances to the Semi-Finals of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup

In a decisive move into the Asian Cup semi-finals, Jordan secured a 1-0 victory over debutants Tajikistan at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium.

The defining moment came in the second half when Vahdat Hanonov inadvertently put the ball into his own net from a set piece, ending Tajikistan's remarkable tournament run.

While Jordan's jubilant players celebrated in front of their fans, waving their nation's flag, Tajikistan's squad faced heartbreak. Despite the defeat, Tajikistan's supporters, who had flown in for the game, offered their heroes a standing ovation, acknowledging their surpassing of pre-tournament expectations.

The first half remained goalless, with Tajikistan's Ehson Panjshanbe hitting the bar and Jordan's Yazan Al-Naimat missing two challenging chances. Tajikistan faced an additional setback as striker Shahrom Samiev left the field in tears due to a hamstring injury.

Jordan's breakthrough came in the 66th minute when Abdallah Nasib's header from a corner found the net via a deflection off Hanonov's chest. The victory marked Jordan's first entry into the Asian Cup semi-finals.

Overall, the match showcased intense competition, with Jordan capitalizing on the set-piece opportunity to secure their place among the tournament's top contenders.