S Korea beat Japan to reach football semis
The Koreans, looking to end a 28-year title drought at the Asian Games, play Thailand in the last four after finally breaking down Japan’s stubborn resistance in front of 43,000 raucous fans in Incheon, many of whom were wearing flashing ‘Red Devils’ horns.
Jang calmly tucked away a spot kick in the 88th minute after substitute Lee Jong-Ho had been clattered from behind and left with blood pouring from his nose.
As the stadium erupted with unbridled joy, match-winner Jang sprinted to the bench, where he was mobbed by teammates.
“A few of the players were feeling the pressure tonight,” South Korea coach Lee Kwang-Jong told reporters with a huge sigh of relief. “We need to show more composure in front of the goal. The players must stay calm. Games are coming thick and fast and we’re picking up a few injuries, but we can’t use that as an excuse.”
In another match, Jong In-Gwan scored in the third minute of injury time on Sunday as North Korea beat UAE to also secure a place in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Thailand eased into the last four after beating Jordan 2-0 through goals from Chanathip Songkrasin and Thawikan Kroekrit.
Badminton
China’s Olympic champion Lin Dan shattered world number one Lee Chong Wei’s dreams of an Asian Games gold with a 22-20, 12-21, 21-9 win in the semi-finals.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 29th, 2014.
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