Ji So-yoon was targeted by Chinese Shaolin soccer.
The women's national football team, led by head coach Shin Sang-woo, drew 2-2 with China in the first match of the women's division of the 2025 E-1 Football Championship (East Asian Cup) held at Suwon World Cup Stadium on the 9th.
Korea fell behind 1-2 and faced the risk of defeat, but Ji So-yoon's (Seattle Rain) dramatic equalizer in stoppage time of the second half rescued the team from crisis.
There was a chilling moment in the 38th minute of the first half. Ji So-yoon attempted a header on a high ball. China's Liu Jing kicked Ji So-yoon in the chest with the sole of her foot. It was a very dangerous play due to the studs. However, without video assistant referee (VAR) in this tournament, the referee only issued a warning.
Fortunately, Ji So-yoon was not seriously injured, but it was a very dangerous scene. Liu Jing should have been sent off.
Japanese media were also greatly surprised by China's play. They were even more perplexed that no red card was issued. Japan's 'Higashi Web' noted, "There is no way to stop China's Shaolin soccer. Following the men's division, the women's division also saw rough tackles from China. China's dangerous play even threatened Korea's ace, Ji So-yoon. It was a play that could have led to an injury."
They continued, "Without VAR in the tournament, there is no basis for proper punishment. The foul committed against the living legend Ji So-yoon is regrettable. It should have been a red card. If China plays like this against Japan, players could get injured."
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