Qatar beats Japan 3-1 to lift 2019 Asian Cup

The Samurai Blue looked much sharper after the break, Takumi Minamino pulled one back in the 69th minute with a clinical finish after being well set-up by Yuya Osako.

However, Qatar's nerves were settled minutes later when Abdelkarim Hassan's header from a corner hit Maya Yoshida's hand. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) offered referee a chance to review it and, after a brief period, Afif converted the penalty to seal the win.

"They prepared this match better than us and played more aggressive in the first half. It was a lesson for me and the team," Yoshida said.

Maya Yoshida had an opportunity to make up for the handball but sent his header over the bar with two minutes remaining.