In a high-energy EAFF opener, China suffered a surprising 3-0 loss to hosts South Korea. The match was a rollercoaster ride from the first whistle, keeping fans glued to every pass and goal. ⚽️
South Korea wasted no time setting the pace. In the 8th minute, Lee Dong-gyeong unleashed a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box, sparking the home crowd. Not long after, in the 21st minute, Joo Min-kyu headed in a well-placed shot to double the lead at halftime. The pressure intensified as Kim Ju-sung sealed the win in the 57th minute with a close-range finish after a corner kick.
Under caretaker coach Dejan Djurdjevic, China gave budding talents a chance to shine, including 2006-born Kuai Jiwen and Wang Yudong in the starting lineup. Despite sparking some attacking momentum in the second half, injuries and a tough opponent meant the Chinese side couldn’t turn the tide.
Coach Djurdjevic noted, "They scored early and played very smoothly, which put us under a lot of pressure," emphasizing that while the loss stings, it offers valuable lessons ahead of the next challenge. China will face Japan on Saturday, a matchup that many young football fans and early professionals are eagerly anticipating. 🚀
Matches like these remind us that in football—as in tech and everyday life—every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay tuned for more exciting action on the pitch!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
