Thousands of fans packed out the Uzbekistan Sports Complex to cheer their side to victory over a resilient Chinese side that were bidding for a first appearance in the final of the tournament.

Artur Yunusov opened the scoring for the hosts but China hit back with two quick goals from Li Xin be fore both Li and Fakhriddin Samegov scored in the 19th minute to make it 3-2 to the visitors at half time.

But Uzbekistan rallied after the break and equalised through Nodir Elibaev before Samegov’s 33rd minute goal clinched victory.

Uzbekistan will make their first appearance in the final in four years as they hope to lift the AFC Futsal Championship trophy having fallen just short on two previous occasions.

“This is not just the victory for the team. This is a victory for the Uzbekistan people and I sincerely would like to thank all our fans.” said Brazilian coach Sapo.

“Regarding the match, I want to point out that we won through hard work and courage. We tried to avoid making mistakes as much as p ossible.”

China coach Guilherme Da Silveira felt the defeat was perhaps a little unfair on his players but believes the game was a great spectacle for the fans.

“In my opinion, if the match had finished 3-3 it would have been much fairer than what we got at the end,” he said.

“But nothing can be changed and I want to congratulate all the fans of futsal, they have witnessed a great game with both teams playing well.”

Da Silveira also reserved praise for the fans that attended the game and feels their support could give Uzbekistan the edge in Sunday’s final.

“In addition, I was delighted with the atmosphere throughout the match. I can see how the fans are making an invaluable contribution to their team’s victory.”