Cahill scores twice as Australia beat China 2-0 at Asian Cup

China's goalkeeper Wang Dalei reacts after his team's 2-0 loss to Australia in their AFC Asia Cup quarterfinal soccer match in Brisbane, Australia, Jan. 22, 2015. [Photo/CFP]

Veteran Tim Cahill consolidated his talismanic place in Australian soccer on Thursday, striking twice in an Asian Cup quarterfinal that secured the host’s berth in the last four and continue China’s soccer woes.

Australia turned its dominance into a goal within four minutes of the start of the second half when Cahill scored with a dramatic a bicycle kick. China, with its confidence boosted after winning all three Group B games, showed defensive lapses in the second half, one of which led to Cahill adding a second goal in the 65 minute.

South Korea defeated Uzbekistan thanks to two extra-time goals and join Australia in the semifinals.

Japan, eyeing its fifth appearance in the last four, will play UAE, while Iran will play Iraq in the last quarterfinal.