Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Seoul: Korea Republic have proved more than capable of springing surprises in the women's game. At the FIFA Women's World Cup 2015 Canada, Yoon Dukyeo's side came from behind to defeat Spain 2-1 en route to the second stage. More recently, the Taeguk Ladies knocked out three-time Asian champions DPR Korea as they sealed qualification to next year's AFC Women's Asian Cup in Jordan, which also serves as the qualifier for the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup France 2019.
In a sense, they emerged victors in unexpected fashion on both occasions. But it was their elimination of their northern peninsula neighbours which raised more eyebrows. Playing in Pyongyang, hosts DPR Korea were strongly-favoured, considering their proud record on the continent. However, the visitors proved more than a match for them. Korea Republic emerged undefeated, holding the home side to a 1-1 draw. The two sides finished level on points with two wins and a draw each but Korea Republic advanced thanks to scoring more goals.
By doing so, Korea Republic caused a huge upset, considering their rivals had reached the final in each of the past four Asian Cups they had qualified for. But while their success was seen as a surprise by the media and fans alike, Korea Republic captain Cho Sohyun (pictured above, left) told **FIFA.com **that it was nothing more than an initial target fulfilled.
"Before travelling to Pyongyang, we were aware that the top priority for us was to secure a ticket to the next Women's World Cup," said the 28-year-old Incheon Red Angels midfielder, who scored three times and skippered her side through the qualifying competition. "This meant that the qualification group was something we must win. Had we failed, it would have been a huge setback for our women's team in the following years. We will have plenty of opportunities to play against the world's top teams if we go to the World Cup."
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