The Bahrain national team was eliminated from the Asian Cup in the round of 16 after losing to their Japanese counterparts 3-1 in a match held today, Wednesday. Japan's goals were scored by Ritsu Doan, Takefusa Kubo, and Daizen Maeda in the 31st, 49th, and 72nd minutes, respectively, while Bahrain's goal came from an own goal by Japan's goalkeeper, Suzuki, in the 64th minute. Japan will face the winner of the match between Iran and Syria in the quarter-finals.
The first half of the match was exciting, with Japan controlling the midfield from the outset, searching for a breakthrough against Bahrain's well-organized defense. Japan attempted to penetrate Bahrain's defense with cross passes but to no avail. The first significant Bahraini offensive appearance occurred in the 28th minute when Ali Madan struck a strong shot from outside the box that was saved by the Japanese goalkeeper. Japan quickly responded with a powerful strike in the 30th minute, which rebounded off the post to forward Ritsu Doan, who easily scored the opening goal of the match.
Japan continued to apply strong offensive pressure in search of a second goal, and Nakamura struck a dangerous ground shot that turned into a corner in the 36th minute. Bahrain tried to maintain possession and disrupt Japan's rhythm in the remaining minutes, concluding the first half with the Samurai leading by a single goal.
The second half began with Bahrain attempting to control the ball; however, the Japanese team quickly succeeded in doubling their lead with a second goal from their star player, Kubo, in the 49th minute. The match became more exciting as Bahrain attacked in an attempt to reduce the deficit, while Japan's quick counterattacks posed a significant threat to the somewhat advanced Bahraini defense. In the 62nd minute, Nakamura scored another goal for Japan, but it was disallowed due to offside.
Bahrain's performance improved noticeably, and they exerted strong pressure on Japan in their half. In the 64th minute, Bahrain reduced the deficit when Japan's goalkeeper, Suzuki, scored an own goal. Bahraini dominance continued in the midfield; however, Japan managed to snatch a crucial third goal with a brilliant individual effort from forward Maeda in the 72nd minute. Bahrain's performance dropped following the third goal, while Japan sought a fourth goal, taking advantage of replacement player Mitoma's runs, who missed several clear opportunities.
Attempts from both teams continued until the referee blew the final whistle, confirming Japan's advancement to the quarter-finals of the tournament.
