RIYADH: Asian Football Confederation president Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa has congratulated Saudi Arabia for winning their maiden AFC U-23 Asian Cup crown, after the Green Falcons defeated hosts Uzbekistan 2-0 in the final at the Bunyodkor Stadium on Sunday. Runners-up in 2014 and 2020, Saudi Arabia finally clinched the coveted title with Ahmed Al-Ghamdi and Firas Al-Buraikan finding the back of the net in the final, with the Green Falcons keeping an impressive and flawless defensive record throughout the tournament. The AFC president said: “On behalf of the Asian football family, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Saudi Arabia for clinching their maiden AFC U-23 Asian Cup title. “Saudi Arabia’s consistency and breathtaking performances throughout the campaign are testament to the remarkable efforts undertaken by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation in strengthening the foundations for their future generation of footballers to thrive in the continent and beyond. “We must also praise Uzbekistan for displaying incredible resolve and teamwork in reaching Sunday’s decider and for providing Asia’s passionate fans with a captivating final.” He also took the opportunity to recognize the efforts undertaken behind the scenes by the Uzbekistan Football Association and the Local Organizing Committee in staging a successful tournament. “The AFC U-23 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2022 was another clear indication of the AFC’s steady and undeniable road to normalcy, and we must applaud the UFA and the LOC for showcasing great determination in organizing a truly memorable spectacle,” he added.