No-Defeat Continues Against China

The Korean national soccer team continued its no-defeat record of 14 wins and 10 ties against China, as the A-Match evaluation match with China, which took place at Incheon Munhak World Cup Stadium on the 27th, scored another draw. Also, the team did not allow a single goal for 5 matches in a row, since the Tunisian match in March.

Korea pursued scores in the first half by positioning Choi Yong-Su as the forefront striker, Sul Gi-Hyun and Park Ji-Sung on side wings, but gained no definite chance for scoring.

Instead, China made threatening opportunities by omitting the midfield play, and using one or two long passes in quick counterattack.

Korea gained leadership of the game in the second half, as Lee Young-Pyo and Yoo Sang-Chul, who replaced Song Jong-Kuk and Yoon Jung-Hwan, conquered the midfield, but failed to finalize a goal.

“We came across crisis for one or two times due to China’s fast offense, but the goalkeeper put up a good defense. From now on, we are going to focus on high-level set plays through secret training,” said manager Guus Hiddink.

buddy@donga.com