Japan defeated China in the 2004 AFC Asian Cup final. This victory marked Japan's third title in the tournament's history.

Match Overview

The final took place on August 7, 2004, at Beijing's Workers' Stadium, where host nation China faced defending champions Japan. Japan secured a 3-1 win with goals from Takashi Fukunishi (22'), Koji Nakata (65'), and Keiji Tamada (90+1'), while China's Li Ming scored in the 31st minute.

Key Highlights

  • Controversial Moment : Nakata's goal sparked outrage among Chinese fans, as replays suggested a handball, intensifying the rivalry in front of 62,000 spectators.
  • Dramatic Finish : Tamada's stoppage-time breakaway goal sealed the triumph, cementing Japan's dominance in Asian football.
  • Tournament Context : China, hosting for the first time, had previously lost to Japan in the 2000 semifinals; Japan retained their crown after beating Saudi Arabia in the prior final.

Historical Impact

This match highlighted Japan's rise, with three Asian Cup titles by 2004 (1992, 2000, 2004), while China's runner-up finish echoed their 1984 silver. The heated atmosphere left a lasting legacy in East Asian soccer dynamics.

TL;DR: Japan beat China 3-1 in the 2004 AFC Asian Cup final amid controversy and drama.

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