Pakistan football loses Asian Games opener

National team goes down 2-0 to North Korea.

KARACHI: Pakistan’s football campaign at the Asian Games started on a disappointing note as they were defeated 2-0 by North Korea in their opening match on Thursday.

North Korea had already beaten China 3-0 on September 15, with both teams slotted in Group F along with Pakistan.

The national team contained its opponents in the first half, but North Korea’s So Kyong Jin scored in the 40th minute on a penalty kick to take the lead 1-0 at the interval, while Mansoor Khan was sent out on a red card for his foul that led to the penalty.

The North Koreans sealed their win against Pakistan with Jong II-Gwan’s goal in the 67th minute.

Pakistan will play their next match against China on September 22. The top two sides from the group will go into the round of 16.

So far, North Korea is leading the pool with six points, while Pakistan is in second position due to China’s 3-0 lost to Korea.

The men’s football championship is featuring 29 countries in the U23 competition.

Pakistan is fielding a young team with Chaman-based striker Kaleemullah leading the side in Incheon.

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