Suwon: North Korea’s Naegohyang Women’s FC secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over South Korea’s Suwon FC Women on Wednesday to book a place in the final of the Asian Women’s Champions League.
According to Beyond Time News, the match marked a rare sporting encounter between teams from North and South Korea and attracted significant public attention in Suwon despite heavy rain.
Rare North-South Football Clash Draws Attention
The semi-final carried major symbolic importance as it involved North Korea’s first sports team visit to South Korea in eight years.
Fans quickly purchased all 7,087 general admission tickets after sales opened last week, reflecting strong interest in the historic match.
Although torrential rain reduced attendance inside the roofless stadium, supporters from both sides still created an energetic atmosphere.
Naegohyang Stages Comeback Victory
The match remained competitive throughout, with both teams creating several early chances.
Naegohyang had an early goal disallowed for offside, while Suwon striker Haruhi Suzuki struck the post during the first half.
However, Suzuki eventually gave Suwon the lead in the 49th minute after capitalising on hesitation inside the North Korean defence.
Naegohyang responded quickly. Just six minutes later, Choe Kum Ok scored the equaliser with a powerful header from a free kick.
Subsequently, prolific striker Kim Kyong Yong completed the comeback in the 67th minute by heading home the winning goal after a scrappy attacking move.
Penalty Miss Proves Costly for Suwon
South Korea’s team received a major opportunity to level the match after a VAR review awarded a penalty late in the game.
Unfortunately for the home side, captain Ji So-yun missed the spot kick, sending the ball wide despite the goalkeeper diving in the opposite direction.
As a result, Naegohyang held on to secure a memorable victory and a place in the tournament final.
North Korea to Face Japanese Side in Final
The North Korean club will now face Japan’s Tokyo Verdy Beleza in Saturday’s final at the same stadium.
Tokyo Verdy Beleza reached the final after defeating Australia’s Melbourne City 3-1 in the other semi-final earlier in the day.
Match Played in Positive Spirit
Despite political tensions between the two Koreas, the semi-final proceeded peacefully and without major controversy.
Supporters from civic organisations backed by South Korea’s unification ministry attended the game to encourage both teams.
According to Beyond Time News, the players also maintained a competitive but respectful atmosphere throughout the match.
Read more:North Korean Women’s Football Team Arrives in South Korea for Rare Match
Historic Context Behind the Match
North and South Korea technically remain at war since the Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice rather than a peace treaty.
Because of ongoing political restrictions, North Korean supporters generally cannot travel to South Korea for sporting events.
Consequently, the match carried emotional significance for many fans who viewed it as a rare moment of sporting connection between the two sides.
FAQs
Which team won the semi-final?
Naegohyang Women’s FC from North Korea defeated Suwon FC Women 2-1.
Where was the match played?
The match took place in Suwon, South Korea.
Why was the game significant?
It marked the first visit by a North Korean sports team to South Korea in eight years.
Who will Naegohyang face in the final?
They will play Tokyo Verdy Beleza from Japan.
Did South Korea have a chance to equalise?
Yes, Suwon missed a late penalty during the second half.
#NorthKorea #SouthKorea #WomenFootball #AsianChampionsLeague #FootballNews #Naegohyang #SuwonFC #BeyondTimeNews
