by Thailand and a top three finish was required for Australia to progress to the Olympics for the first time since 2008. Australia, coached by Graham Arnold, faced Iraq in the opening game. Reno Piscopo opened the scoring in the second half although 15 minutes later Iraq equalised and the game finished 1–1. Australia's next match was against the host Thailand. After going behind in the first half, Nicholas D'Agostino leveled the score just before half time and then scored the winner in the 76th minute. Now sitting on top of the group, a win or draw against debutant Bahrain would secure progression. Ramy Najjarine scored Australia's only goal and despite Bahrain scoring in first half injury time, the Olyroos held on to top the group and move through to the quarter-finals. The quarter-final opponent was Syria and the game entered extra time after a scoreless ninety minutes. Australia's Al Hassan Toure scored the only goal of the game to send them through to the semi-finals for the first time. Australia next played South Korea, a team that had won all four of its matches in the tournament. The Koreans won the match 2–0 with both goals coming in the second half sending Australia into a third place playoff with defending champions Uzbekistan for the final AFC qualification spot for the 2020 Olympics. Australia defeated Uzbekistan 1–0 at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok to claim third-place, their best ever finish in the tournament, which also qualified them for the Summer Olympics for the first time since 2008. D'Agostino scored the only goal in the 47th minute. Uzbekistan's Oybek Bozorov was sent off in the 59th minute, just 6 minutes after coming on although Australia couldn't take advantage and didn't add to their tally. 2022 AFC U-23 Asian Cup Results and fixtures The following is a list of match results in the last 12 months, as well as any future matches that have been scheduled. Legend 2022 Coaching staff Current coaching staff Players Current squad The following 23 players were called up for the 2022 AFC U-23 Asian Cup. Caps and goals correct as of 19 June 2022 after game against Japan. Overage players in Olympic Games Competitive record In 1992, 1996 and 2004 Olympics, Australia qualified representing OFC, while in 2008 and 2020 representing AFC. They automatically qualified for the 2000 Olympics as hosts. See also Sport in Australia Football