I figure the endless support from the standings is graciously organized by the host China for their good North Korean friends.
If the Koreans are now prevailing in possession and offensive actions, it's also because, when we manage to get the ball back, we often waste it with unforced passing mistakes. I didn't watch the game vs South Korea: has it been similar?
Goal by Korea. It was coming. We defended quite awkwardly in the box, leaving multiple chances to shot in the same action, until one of them was finally framed.
Japan 0-1 PRK, at HT. No actual end product by us in the Korean half of the pitch, while they had multiple shots at our goal (luckily not as dangerous as their goal itself): at this rate, I don't see how can we get back into this game.
By the way, the ref has whistled the end of the 1st Half at 46':40", despite 2 minutes of additional time having been called and Korean wasting time even on a thrown-in. Of course, we would have done nothing of those 20 additional seconds and it's likely that we would had been in danger in our half if they had been played, but I don't think the Koreans need any help with the clock.
There is so much space in front of Little Nadeshiko's defence for North Korea to run into. It was the same against South Korea. Also the back four were playing statues for the first goal. The back four have also been caught out of position and have played North Korea onside twice. I am starting to wonder who their defensive coach is. I imagine she will get pulled but I would like to see Kawamura (I meant Tamamura) brought into the game more. She is genuinely fast and I think if given the chance she could worry the North Korea defence. There have been a few occasions where she has been free on the wing but nobody has been able to get the ball to her. I think North Korea are going to win this, but the way they play they do leave space for attacking players if you are able to break their press.
How are defense was caught by this lob is unexcusable! 0-2 at 50'. Now, if we have to lose (and I guess there is no way back), I hope the score remains the same, so @Lohmann has his glory-.day.
our GK spilled the ball on a CK, but the subsequent shot went out. Doesn't seem a very reliable GK to me, though.
75 mins Time to throw caution to the wind and go for it imo They still look strong though...performancing enhancing turnips I fear