Korean soccer has been brought to its knees by Japan once again.
The Korean B team, coached by Hong Kwang-cheol, lost 1-2 to Japan in the final match of the Asian University Football Championship at Taebaek Sports Complex at 2 p.m. on Wednesday. It was the third trophy for Japan, which had won the tournament twice before. The Korean B team, which defeated Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand in the group stage, had to settle for runner-up honors.
Japan came out on top. In the 21st minute, Shota Fujimori’s cross from the right flank was headed in by Keigo Nakayama to split the Korean goal. South Korea, who pushed hard after the concession, got a lucky equalizer just before halftime. Kang Sung-hwa’s long throw-in drifted into the penalty box, where Japan’s Hiruki Hayashi was able to clear it away, resulting in an own goal.메이저사이트
Japanese players celebrate after scoring the game-winning goal. Photo: SBS SPORTS broadcast capture
South Korea added another goal eight minutes into the second half. Keigo’s header from inside the penalty box was met by Sota Matsunaga on the doorstep with a volley that rattled the net. Japan rattled South Korea with precise passing throughout the second half. South Korea lacked a bit of precision, as if they were running out of gas. South Korea’s best chance came just before the end of the game when Yeo Hong-gyu’s right-footed shot was blocked by the goalkeeper. Yeo hit the ground in disappointment.
South Korea split into two teams for the tournament. The Korea A team, coached by Lee Chang-woo, faced Japan in their first group game, a scoreless draw. The two Korean teams had never beaten Japan before. The Korean A team defeated Thailand on the 11th to finish in third place.
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