DPRK Dominates! Hat-Trick Hero Sends China Home in U17 Asian Cup Semis ⚽️🔥
What a game! 🏟️ The energy in Suzhou was absolutely electric as the defending champions, the DPRK, proved exactly why they are the team to beat. In a high-stakes, thrilling encounter, the DPRK secured a 4-2 victory over hosts China to punch their ticket to the U17 Women's Asian Cup final.
China definitely entered the pitch with big ambitions. Having already clinched a spot in this year's U17 World Cup after a solid 3-0 win over India in the quarterfinals, the hosts were feeling the hype. However, the DPRK wasted no time in taking control. 📉
The deadlock was broken in the 28th minute when Yu Jong-Hyang capitalized on a possession loss by defender Liu Yuchen to put the DPRK ahead. Just five minutes later, the lead doubled! A pinpoint assist from Ri Ui-Gyong found Ri Kyong-Im, who unleashed a stunning shot from the edge of the box that left the keeper with no chance. 🚀
But China didn't go down without a fight. Just before the halftime whistle, Liu Yuxi calmly slotted in her third goal of the tournament, giving the home crowd a glimmer of hope. That momentum carried into the second half, where Liu struck again just five minutes after the restart, equalizing the score and sending the stadium into a frenzy! 📣
However, the DPRK's composure was on another level. In the 65th minute, Yu Jong-Hyang tapped in a cross from Kim Won-Sim to regain the lead. Ten minutes later, she completed a legendary hat-trick with a skillful header from a Won Sol-Gyong cross, sealing the 4-2 win. Absolute boss moves! 🌟
Now, the stage is set for an epic finale. The DPRK will face Japan, who cruised through their semifinal with a 4-0 win over Australia. This upcoming final is a rematch of the 2024 showdown (which the DPRK also won), promising an electrifying clash for the crown! 🏆✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
