Soccer-Qatar edge Uzbekistan on penalties to set up Asian Cup semi-final with Iran

Soccer Football - AFC Asian Cup - Quarter Final - Qatar v Uzbekistan - Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor, Qatar - February 3, 2024 Qatar players celebrate after the match REUTERS/Molly Darlington

AL KHOR, Qatar (Reuters) - Defending champions and hosts Qatar beat Uzbekistan 3-2 on penalties in a thrilling Asian Cup quarter-final that ended 1-1 after extra time at Al Bayt Stadium on Saturday to set up a tantalising clash with Iran.

With nearly 59,000 fans in attendance, Qatar goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham stood strong to save three penalties in the shootout before Pedro Miguel converted the decisive spot kick to send Qatar through to the semi-finals once again.