Saudi Arabia's team managed by Roberto Mancini was eliminated from the Asian Cup, losing to South Korea in a penalty shootout. A dramatic match saw Klinsmann's team equalize in the 99th minute and then prevail in the shootout, earning a spot in the quarterfinals of the competition. However, in recent hours, Mancini's gesture of leaving the field just before the decisive penalty has sparked much controversy.

It was the moment of South Korea's penalty, the fourth and final one that sealed the victory. Before the kick, Mancini left the field and in the post-match press conference explained his action like this: "I thought the game was over, I apologize for leaving the field before the end".