Japan's counterattack hit us hard.
The men's national football team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, is trailing 0-1 against its rival Japan after conceding the first goal in the 3rd match of the 2025 East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Championship (East Asian Cup) held at Yongin Mir Stadium at 7:24 p.m. on the 15th.
Korea and Japan, each having secured 2 victories, clashed for the tournament trophy. Korea was defeated 3-0 by China in the 1st match and 2-0 by Hong Kong in the 2nd match. However, Japan won against Hong Kong 6-1 in the 1st match and 2-0 against China in the 2nd match. With a goal difference of +7, Japan is ahead of Korea, which has a +5 goal difference.
In the East Asian Cup, Korea has maintained its position with 5 championships. Japan is closely pursuing with 2 championships. Remarkably, China has won twice in 2005 and 2010. In 2022, Korea surrendered the trophy to Japan, ending a 4-year championship streak. Korea must avenge itself against Japan to achieve its 6th championship title.
Korea put Jumin-kyu up front to hunt for goals. Oh Se-hoon, who plays in the J-League and knows Japanese players well, was initially on the bench.
Korea's midfield consisted of Na Sang-ho, Jumin-kyu, and Lee Dong-gyeong, while the defense was formed by Lee Tae-seok, Kim Joo-seong, and Park Seung-wook, with goalkeeper Jo Hyun-woo. Oh Se-hoon remained on the bench, waiting for his chance to enter.
In the 7th minute of the first half, Na Sang-ho's right-foot shot hit the post. Missing the opportunity immediately led to a crisis. In the ensuing counterattack by Japan, Ryo Jemein's volley shot became the opening goal. Although there were 4 defenders against 2 attackers, no one could block the shot.
In the 9th minute of the first half, Lee Dong-gyeong fell near the box. The referee immediately issued a yellow card. However, it was deemed that he fell outside the box, resulting in a free kick. Lee Dong-gyeong's shot was blocked by the defensive wall.
Korea lost the midfield to Japan's precise passing. Even when they managed to steal the ball from Japan, the quality of their counterattacks was lacking. Korea also wasted a free kick opportunity gained during added time. Japan led 1-0 at halftime.
[OSEN]