Subway Olyroos begin AFC Under-23 Asian Cup campaign with draw against Jordan

The Subway Olyroos kicked off their AFC Under-23 Asian Cup campaign with a goalless draw against Jordan in Qatar. Starring nine Isuzu UTE A-League players, the teams could not break the deadlock in the Group A opener at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium. Despite outshooting Jordan 13-3, the match ended level as Tony Vidmar’s squad now shifts focus to a showdown with Indonesia next on the schedule.

The Isuzu UTE A-League representatives in the starting lineup included Patrick Beach (Melbourne City), Callum Talbot (Melbourne City), Jordan Courtney-Perkins (Sydney FC), Jacob Farrell (Central Coast Mariners), Ryan Teague (Melbourne Victory), Jake Hollman (Macarthur FC), Lachlan Brook (Western Sydney Wanderers), Alou Kuol (Central Coast Mariners), and Nicolas Milanovic (Western Sydney Wanderers). Jordi Valadon (Melbourne Victory) made an appearance off the bench during the match.

Milanovic tested Jordan early with a shot that sailed over the crossbar, setting the tone for a tense opening to the game. The action intensified in the second half, with Beach making a crucial save to deny Baker Kalbouneh, and Jordan had a goal disallowed for offside following a corner.

Brook and substitute Mohamed Toure had opportunities as the game progressed, while Jordan’s captain Danial Afaneh was sent off for a second yellow card, reducing them to 10 men at the end.

The AFC Under-23 Asian Cup also serves as the qualifiers for this year’s Olympics in Paris. The top three teams automatically secure berths, with the fourth-placed team entering an AFC-CAF play-off for the final Olympic qualification spot.

As the Isuzu UTE A-League players continue to showcase their talents on the international stage, Australian football fans eagerly anticipate their upcoming performances in the Australia Hyundai A League.

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Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.

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