Jurgen Klinsmann's team advanced as the runner-up in Group E after conceding in the 15th-minute of added time at Al Janoub Stadium.

Romel Morales struck late to level the group game and ensure Bahrain, which won 1-0 against third-placed Jordan, advanced as the group winner to face Japan.

Despite losing, Jordan advanced as one of the best third-placed teams and will take on Iraq next.

Korea Republic was another of the pre-tournament favourites, but, like Japan, it has had its setbacks in the group stage and progressed with one win and two draws.

A Son Heung-min penalty four minutes into stoppage-time gave his team a 3-2 lead against Malaysia that would have sealed first place.

But Morales secured Malaysia's only point of the tournament by firing into the bottom corner from outside the area.

Korea Republic led through Jeong Woo-yeong's header in the 21st minute. Faisal Halim levelled six minutes after half-time and Malaysia had the chance to go ahead after Seol Young-woo fouled Arif Aiman in the box. Aiman stepped up and converted from the penalty spot.

Korea Republic equalised in the 83rd minute thanks to an own goal by Syihan Hazmi before the dramatic conclusion.

Klinsmann may be grateful to avoid Japan for now, even as the four-time champion finished runner-up in Group D behind Iraq.

Bahrain lost its opening game to Korea Republic but advanced to the knockout stage at the top of Group E after back-to-back 1-0 wins. It was Abdulla Yusuf Helal who struck in the 34th at Khalifa International Stadium to beat Jordan.

The last two matches of the group stage came in Group F, with both contests finishing as draws.

Saudi Arabia topped the group after drawing 0-0 with Thailand, which progressed as runner-up, while a 1-1 draw between Oman and Kyrgyzstan in the other game means both teams are eliminated.

Korea Republic versus Saudi Arabia looks like a standout last 16 fixture, with that contest due to take place on 30 January.

Japan will play Bahrain a day later, while some of the other key contests include Iran meeting Syria and host Qatar going up against Palestine.

The knockout stage starts on 28 January with Australia taking on Indonesia.