Syria and Uzbekistan have booked their places in the quarterfinals following victories over Palestine and Hong Kong, China, respectively, on Thursday afternoon. 

In a match held at Patriot Candrabaga Stadium in Bekasi, Syria narrowly defeated Palestine 1-0 in front of 200 supporters. 

Both sides failed to show their attacking prowess at the start and preferred to play it safe, resulting in a scoreless first half. 

The tempo gradually increased in the second half.

Syria midfielder Ahmad Ashkar headed past keeper Ramzi Alfahkouri in the 73rd minute to clinch victory.  

Syria coach Muhammad Alfakeer told the post-match presser that he applauded Palestine for putting up a good fight and was grateful for the win. 

Syria will face either Vietnam or Bahrain in the quarterfinals. 

"Now, we are focusing on the next match. I predict that we will face Vietnam as they are more aggressive and fast," Alfakeer said. 

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan thumped Hong Kong 3-0 and will face either South Korea or Iran in the next round. (yan)