CARDIFF: South Korea will turn up at Wembley to watch the Olympic final and then receive their bronze medals after having defeated neighbours Japan 2-0 in the places play-off at the Millennium Stadium.

Breakaway goals either side of half-time provided the Koreans with only their second win in six games at the tournament, after their 2-1 win over Switzerland in the group stages. The Koreans’ won their quarter-final against Great Britain on penalties.

Arsenal forward Park Chuyoung and Augsburg midfielder Koo Jacheol were on target as the Taeguk Warriors secured Asia’s first medal in the men’s tournament since 1948, when Japan picked up bronze.

The first half was a snappy affair with few openings until Japan wasted a smattering of chances in quick succession several minutes before half-time.

Korea goalkeeper Jung Sungryong punched a Keigo Higashi header over the bar, then saw Horoki Sakai go close with a header. Minutes later he punted the ball downfield and Park Chuyoung collected just inside the Japan half and ran on to beat keeper Gonda on his left, near post.

The Koreans doubled their advantage, apparently against the run of play, in the 57th minute. Koo Jacheol was quickest to react to another long ball and gave Shuchi Gonda no chance with a low bouncing shot.

 

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