Korea Republic comeback sinks Spanish hopes - FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP
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Korea Republic came from a goal down to defeat Spain 2-1 and win through to the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ knockout stage for the first time, leaving the Europeans are eliminated.
Spain dominated the first half, taking the lead through Veronica Boquete, only for Cho Sohyun and Kim Sooyun to revive the Taeguk Ladies.
The opening minutes saw Spain’s Natalia Pablos spin and fire on the turn just inches wide. Spain got a deserved reward just prior to the half-hour mark as their iconic midfielder Boquete scored her first Women’s World Cup goal by adroitly side-footing home following a marvellous run and pull-back from Marta Corredera.
Pablos was at it again after being allowed far too much latitude in the penalty area, but she fired straight at the goalkeeper from a 45-degree angle.
An action-packed second half opened with Ji Soyun starting a move which ended with Cho Soyun heading home the equaliser.
Silvia Meseguer and Corredera had strong chances to score for Spain, but it was Korea Republic who scored the crucial next goal as Kim Sooyun’s overhit cross surprised the goalkeeper.
The drama continued until the very last minute of the game, with Sonia Bermudez directing her free-kick on to the crossbar. A draw would have kept Costa Rica in second but instead the South Koreans went through for a meeting with France.
Live Your Goals Player of the Match: Ji Soyun (Korea Republic)