China and South Korea delivered a pulsating 2-2 draw in their opening match of the EAFF Women's E-1 Football Championship on Wednesday, showcasing the growing intensity of women's football in Asia. The match saw dramatic late goals and tactical shifts that kept fans in Suwon on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Yao Wei opened the scoring for China with a 15th-minute long-range strike, only for South Korea's Jang Sel-gi to equalize during first-half stoppage time. The second half saw Shao Ziqin head China back into lead off Yao's assist in the 67th minute, before Ji So-yun's spectacular last-gasp goal secured a share of points for the hosts.
Chinese coach Ante Milicic acknowledged the match's significance: "This was a proper test between two of Asia's strongest teams. While disappointed with the late concessions, we've shown we can compete at this level." The Australian tactician emphasized lessons learned for next year's AFC Women's Asian Cup.
Midfielder Wang Shuang highlighted the team's development focus: "We're building chemistry with every match. This result gives us confidence to keep improving." The draw sets up an intriguing tournament dynamic, with both teams eyeing regional supremacy ahead of crucial continental competitions.
