North Korea beat China 3-2 at the women’s East Asian Cup in Wuhan, China, on Tuesday, meaning the team faces political foe South Korea in the match that will determine who wins the tournament.
Early goals by Kim Yun-mi and Wi Jong-sim put North Korea ahead, while China gained some momentum with a spot-kick by Li Dongna in the 30th minute, Xihnua news agency reported.
Another goal for China by Wang Shanshan put the hosts level, but Wi put the North back in front in the 69th minute, completing the scoring.
Photo: AFP
“Thanks to my players; they have tried their best,” Xinhua quoted China coach Hao Wei as saying.
“We showcased our tactic and mental outlook despite the loss. We had a good second half, but fitness problems after 60 minutes limited us,” Hao said.
In an earlier match on Tuesday, South Korea beat Japan 2-1, giving the team their second victory in the ongoing tournament after they defeated China on Sunday.
The first half saw Japan in the lead with a goal from Emi Nakajima, but South Korea came back in the second half when captain Cho So-hyun equalized in the 54th minute.
Midfielder Jeon Ga-eul scored the winner during three minutes of added time.
“Our players were exhausted and I wasn’t completely satisfied with our overall performance, but a win is a win and we’ll try to get ready for the third match,” Yonhap news agency quoted South Korea head coach Yoon Duk-yeo as saying.
On Sunday, Ri Hyok-chol and Pak Hyon-il scored for North Korea in their 2-1 win over Japan, who answered through Yuki Muto, while China were defeated 0-2 by South Korea, who scored through Kim Seung-dae and Lee Jong-ho.
Tuesday’s results left the two Koreas undefeated and their game on Saturday is to decide the champions.
Additional reporting by staff writer
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