The DPR Korea (DPRK), which lost a close contest to Japan in their first match, deployed a tight 4-1-4-1 formation, looking to limit the Korea REP’s passing. The DPRK looked to attack via long passes whenever they gained possession. Their opponents played a 3-4-3, looking to play the ball into wide positions. The Korea REP’s KIM Jinsu attempted an attack from the left, and KIM Minwoo’s cross was met by JIN Seonguk with a volley on goal, but the DPRK’s stalwart goalkeeper, RI Myong Guk, was there for a great save, in a moment that was emblematic of the KOREA REP’s difficulty in penetrating the DRPK’s steadfast defense.
In the 64th minute, however, KIM Minwoo took another pass from KIM Jinsu and sent in a left-footed cross. A defender’s attempt to clear the ball away from JIN Seonguk resulted in an own goal, giving the Korea REP. the lead at last. The DPRK then put all their energy into striking back, with head coach Jorn ANDERSEN bringing AN Byong Jun into the match in an effort to find a breakthrough. However, the Korea REP’s three-man back line, led by captain JANG Hyunsoo, stood firm. The Korea REP survived a difficult contest, winning 1-0 to keep alive their hopes of a second straight title. Having fought bravely in consecutive losses to Japan and the Korea REP, the DPRK will face China PR in their last match of the tournament.