Asian teams bow out in the round of 16

South Korea reached the Round of 16 in South Africa, ultimately losing 2–1 to Uruguay after a competitive performance, continuing their reputation as Asia’s most consistent World Cup side.

Co-hosts Japan made history by advancing past the group stage for the first time before falling 1–0 to Turkey in the Round of 16.

After a dramatic group-stage win over Portugal, South Korea were eliminated 4–1 by Brazil in the Round of 16 in Qatar.

Japan pushed Belgium to the brink with a 2–0 lead before losing 3–2 to a last-minute goal in one of the most thrilling Round of 16 matches in Russia.

After topping a group with Spain and Germany, Japan were knocked out by Croatia on penalties following a 1–1 draw.

In their debut tournament, Saudi Arabia reached the Round of 16 before losing 3–1 to Sweden, highlighted by Saeed Al-Owairan’s iconic goal earlier in the competition.

Iran narrowly missed advancing in 2022 and did not reach the Round of 16, but their strong group-stage showing kept them in contention until the final matchday.

Japan exited in heartbreaking fashion after a penalty shootout loss to Paraguay following a goalless draw in South Africa.

South Korea participated in Mexico 1986 but did not advance past the group stage, highlighting the challenges Asian teams faced during that era.

In their first World Cup as an AFC member, Australia reached the Round of 16 and were narrowly defeated 1–0 by eventual champions Italy.