In a high-energy clash at the EAFF E-1 Football Championship, China faced a tough challenge against hosts South Korea, ending the match with a 3-0 scoreline. The game lit up early as South Korea set the tone with slick passing and sharp attacking moves.
In the eighth minute, Lee Dong-gyeong fired a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box, putting South Korea ahead. The pressure continued as Joo Min-kyu scored with a header in the 21st minute, extending their lead to 2-0 by halftime.
After the break, China managed to muster some attacking spirit but could not overturn the deficit. In the 57th minute, Kim Ju-sung sealed the win by firing in a close-range finish following a corner kick, confirming a 3-0 victory for South Korea.
Under caretaker coach Dejan Djurdjevic, China fielded several promising young players, including 2006-born Kuai Jiwen and Wang Yudong. Djurdjevic acknowledged the early pressure and strong performance of South Korea, noting that while China showed flashes of potential in the second half, the team was not quite ready to challenge such a formidable opponent.
Looking ahead, China will face Japan on Saturday, aiming to regroup and learn from this tough loss. Stay tuned for more updates as the tournament unfolds! ⚽🔥
Reference(s):
cgtn.com