Korea REP Seizes on Japan's Mistakes and Wins Two in a Row

With nine players replaced following the 4-2 loss in the first match against DPR Korea, Japan was creating opportunities with their strong and capable pass work, when, at the 30-minute mark of the first half, as Japan held on to the second ball from a left corner kick, midfielder Nakajima took Korea REP center-back Lim Seonjoo's cleared the ball with her right foot and scored with a mid shot ground ball.

Japan then kept up a high level of play as forward Mina Tanaka jumped on a long pass from defender Asuna Tanaka for a chance at a follow-up goal when the Korea REP defence shut it down.

As the second half began, Korea REP's offensive line was energized with forward Jang Selgi entering the field. As they poured on the pressure, Korea REP captain Cho So Hyun intercepted a pass, ran with the ball and took a mid shot on goal to even the score. Japan manager Sasaki sent in Kawamura as a volante to manage Korea's countering, and brought forward Sugasawa with her strong heading ability onto the front line to invigorate the side attack.

In the end of the game, the dribbler Yokoyama was brought on to the left side for an attempt for a win, but she was stopped by Korea's strong and persistent defense. Just as it appeared the match would end in a draw through loss time, Korea REP took advantage of an opportunity for a free kick from high up the field as number 10 Jeon Ga Eul shot a direct goal to clinch the victory.