DPR Korea - Nigeria [R] Well, they certainly handled Nigeria. They ran down every ball, pressured every challenge. Though Nigeria was bigger, they couldn't handle the non-stop pace.
It was an entertaining match. DPRK was the better team in terms of tactics and fitness while Nigeria had the more entertaining and creative players. DPRK worked to open up splendid scoring chances, many of which were taken away by the Nigerian keeper in 1v1s. Nigeria was fast and reckless but just not cohesive. I thought the Koreans had trouble with their unpredictable style as they themselves seemed to be lacking in creative flair. An interesting contrast of styles. Rough game with the Nigerians taking the worst of it -- their left back Chiejine was stretchered off to the locker room in the 2nd half in a brace. I hope she's OK.
Great passing and the build up was excellent. It's like watching Brazil...No, wait. This team will do better than Brazil.(not that Brazil, Dennis)
Having spent considerable time with both I give big props to the sections of Nigerian and North Korean fans. They were really into it and made a one-sided game very entertaining.
Yes, the fans were great. I talked to some Nigerians who have been living here a long time and others who came for the World Cup. Great banner that they had. The Koreans were raising an Unification banner but not the most appropiate one I was told. Korean guy who told me said that they must have been Americans. I thought it looked familiar. Anyway, great Korean fans behind the one goal and there were so over to the left of the over goal with drums. Rather close to the Nigerians as well. Great atmosphere!
Watched it over here I just wanted to chime in, while I was watching the Oregon/Michigan game on AFN (which was full of excitement), I flipped through the cable channels they have on site and there it was, WWC on Eurosport, I was glad to see the coverage, I was worried I wouldn't see the matches since AFN doesn't seem to think it's a big enough event. --CHEERS
North Korea: excellent display I was pleased and impressed with their dominance and ability to create shots. If a team like Real Madrid got that many chances against any opponent, they'd finish the game 15-0. North Korea should realistically have won this 8-0. Regardless of what happens to Brazil, North Korea has won me over! I want them to win it all now!
It was really nice to watch them on attack. Let's just hope they can calm themselves when they play again. Some rough tackling. Hate to see what they will do when they are frustrated!
You'd like to hit people too if you are dictated to go to the same BARBER as the rest of your teammates. (see their team picture - individuality is definitely not tolerated in NK)
North Korea/Nigeria match report Persistent North Korea Grounds African Champions http://onthesidelines.org/wwc092003b.htm