[SBS Night] 'Kick a Goal' Korean Team Triumphs Over Japan with a 3-2 Victory; Revenge Achieved

Korea beat Japan.

On the April 16th broadcast of SBS's 'Kick a Goal', the second international match between the Japanese team and the Kick a Goal team was aired.

The second international showdown took place during the episode. The first goal brought back memories of the previous match, as the Kick a Goal team committed a handball foul, giving Japan a penalty kick opportunity.

Yuma Mashima stepped up as the kicker and scored the opening goal with a penalty kick. Although goalkeeper Heo Kyung-hee read the direction and got a hand on it, the ball still went in.

However, there were clear differences from the last match. With the addition of Park Ha-yan and Shim Euddeum, the Korean team put pressure on the Japanese players, causing them to struggle early on.

In the latter part of the first half, Lee Yoo-jung was substituted in, increasing the pressure on Japan, and Coach Lee Young-pyo aimed for a goal through set pieces.

Despite executing a perfect set piece, Korea failed to score due to a super save by the Japanese goalkeeper. Both teams engaged in intense physical battles, seeking additional goals. During this process, Park Ha-yan pointed out a handball foul by Japan.

Just like in the previous match, Takahashi committed a handball foul during defense. With differing opinions from both sides, Coach Lee Young-pyo requested a VAR review. As a result, Korea was awarded a penalty kick due to Takahashi's handball foul.

Coach Lee Young-pyo chose Lee Yoo-jung as the kicker, expressing his complete trust by saying, "She was the best during practice." Lee Yoo-jung calmly scored, leveling the match.

The Kick a Goal team then pushed forward, even involving goalkeeper Heo Kyung-hee in the attack. However, this left the goal open, and Yuma Mashima capitalized on the opportunity to score another goal.

The match remained fiercely contested, with physical battles intensifying as it progressed, leading to inevitable fatigue.

At halftime, the Japanese players praised Korea's defense. Yuma Mashima, in particular, recalled the intense competition with Park Ha-yan, saying, "Park Ha-yan is strong."

Coach Lee Young-pyo was concerned about Heo Kyung-hee, who hadn't fully showcased her skills in the first half. He pondered whether to replace her with Kisum or maintain the current lineup.

Ultimately, Heo Kyung-hee remained as the goalkeeper in the second half. The first goal of the second half was scored by Jung Hye-in, who showed determination by getting up and shooting even after falling.

With the score tied at 2-2, the supporters were moved by Jung Hye-in's passion and gave her a warm round of applause.

Later, Park Ji-an scored the winning goal, turning the game around.

The match ended with a 3-2 victory for Korea. The Kick a Goal team celebrated by waving the Korean flag, and Coach Lee Young-pyo expressed satisfaction, saying, "The players achieved their goal and deserve praise."

Coach Maezono of Japan acknowledged Korea's excellent play, stating, "We couldn't beat that level of soccer. It's now 1-1. Let's meet again for a rematch." 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Hyo-jung)