AFC U17 Asian Cup
Four-time champions Japan will enter the tie with a psychological edge, having already defeated twice-winners China PR 2-1 in the group stage.
However, the East Asian rivals now meet under entirely different circumstances, with the trophy on the line and both teams are determined to rise to the occasion.
After overcoming a slow start to their campaign, China PR grew into the tournament, finishing second in Group B behind Japan before hitting their stride in the knockout rounds.
Facing Japan again, head coach Bin Ukishima expects a tight tactical battle.
“Throughout the tournament, they (Japan) have been a very well-organised team, so we need to prepare properly and also focus on our own structured training,” said Ukishima. “There are things both teams understand about each other and also areas that are less familiar. So compared to other opponents, there may be a slightly different dynamic.”
After overcoming a slow start to their campaign, China PR grew into the tournament, finishing second in Group B behind Japan before hitting their stride in the knockout rounds.
Facing Japan again, head coach Bin Ukishima expects a tight tactical battle.
“Throughout the tournament, they (Japan) have been a very well-organised team, so we need to prepare properly and also focus on our own structured training,” said Ukishima. “There are things both teams understand about each other and also areas that are less familiar. So compared to other opponents, there may be a slightly different dynamic.”
Ukishima also reflected on China PR’s progress after reaching their first final in 22 years.
“Reaching the final has been very positive for Chinese football as a whole, but this is the result of long-term work by many coaches and people involved in player development across the country.
“It has been 22 years since the last title and for these players, that history is not something they personally experienced. Still, this moment reflects years of consistent effort.”
“Reaching the final has been very positive for Chinese football as a whole, but this is the result of long-term work by many coaches and people involved in player development across the country.
“It has been 22 years since the last title and for these players, that history is not something they personally experienced. Still, this moment reflects years of consistent effort.”
#AFCU17 - Preview: Final
Japan head coach Shingi Ono, meanwhile, has guided his side back to the final after missing out in 2025.
They were on the brink of suffering elimination against Uzbekistan but dramatically equalising in stoppage time before holding their nerve for a 3-2 penalty shootout win, which Ono believes will help with the long term development of his players.
“The experience throughout this tournament has been very good for the team, and we are now focused on finishing it by winning the title,” said Ono. “The key is to play to our strengths. These players are young and have not experienced a final like this before, so I want to see their courage.”
They were on the brink of suffering elimination against Uzbekistan but dramatically equalising in stoppage time before holding their nerve for a 3-2 penalty shootout win, which Ono believes will help with the long term development of his players.
“The experience throughout this tournament has been very good for the team, and we are now focused on finishing it by winning the title,” said Ono. “The key is to play to our strengths. These players are young and have not experienced a final like this before, so I want to see their courage.”
The tactician expects a tight contest between Japan’s fluidity and China PR’s determination.
“China PR are a well-organised side and we must prepare properly. The final will be a completely different match from the group stage and we will focus on ourselves.
“I don’t think we have any advantage. We must be focused from the start.”
“China PR are a well-organised side and we must prepare properly. The final will be a completely different match from the group stage and we will focus on ourselves.
“I don’t think we have any advantage. We must be focused from the start.”
China PR v Japan
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium Legends (Jeddah)
Kick-off: Friday, 20:00 (UTC+3)
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium Legends (Jeddah)
Kick-off: Friday, 20:00 (UTC+3)
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