 Nigeria are the African Women's Champions |
Kim Kyong Hwa and Ri Kum Suk got the goals as North Korea eased to a 2-0 win over African champions Nigeria in their World Cup Group B encounter. Kim struck in the 17th minute with a sensational curling corner that looped into the far side of the net past diving goalkeeper Precious Dede.
And skipper Ri put the game beyond doubt when she headed home Kim's cross.
Cynthia Uwak headed Nigeria's best chance wide, meaning North Korea join the USA at the top of the group.
Nigerian forward Ifeanyi Chiejine was later booked for kicking a Korean player in the upper thigh to wrap up a miserable first half for the Africans.
Nigeria tried desperately to the end, but the frustrated Africans were unable to nail their attacks with a goal.
"The early goal of the corner kick that swung back really demoralised my girls, but I don't think the North Korean crowd should be going home smiling, because the second half we gave them a good fight," coach Ntiero Effiom said.
North Korea have made a resurgence in women's football in recent times.
After failing to win the Asian Cup last year, their Under-20 team clinched the World Cup in Moscow in 2006, with many of the same players that are now competing in China.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
Bookmark with:
What are these?