Korea Republic’s AFC U17 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2025 campaign has been anything but smooth but the experience gained from it is making Koo Hyeon-bin believe a title tilt is possible.

The East Asian side face a daunting task against hosts Saudi Arabia in the semi-finals on Thursday as they chase a third title following successes in 1986 and 2022, with Koo pinning his hopes on the incredible team attitude that has developed over the course of the tournament.

“I believe it’s definitely possible (to win the title),” said Koo. “And just like we’ve done so far, if we don’t give up and see it through to the end, I truly believe it’s achievable.”

A 1-0 defeat to Indonesia in their opening Group C match hit the team and the players hard but there was a determination within the camp that they wouldn’t allow one misstep derail their campaign.

Recovering swiftly, Korea Republic bounced back to defeat Afghanistan 6-0 before edging Yemen 1-0 to take their place in the quarter-finals, with Koo part of the defence that kept two successive clean sheets.

“First of all, I think we needed more communication among ourselves. And since there are some mistakes and shortcomings on our part, it was good that we were able to talk about those mistakes and work on improving them together.

“The head coach and the coaches really helped us. They supported us while thinking about what’s best for us. Their support motivates us to work hard and show our best performance in return.”

Koo continued to impress after Korea Republic were handed another tough challenge in the shape of Tajikistan in the quarter-finals.

Taking the lead through Jeong Hyeon-ung’s strike in the 67th minute, goals from Mukhammad Nazriev and Abdullo Ibragimzoda saw Korea Republic staring at an early exit before Kim Ji-seong’s stoppage time equaliser sent the tie into penalties.

Korea Republic were perfect in the shoot-out with Koo scoring the decisive spot-kick in the 5-3 win and that has given the Incheon United U18 player a taste of action at the other end.

“Of course, I want to score goals too. But I believe our forwards are fully capable of scoring plenty, so I trust them. If a chance comes my way, I’d love to score as well.”

Source: AFC