Ji So-yun’s long-range banger in the 87th minute in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup quarterfinals on Sunday lifted South Korea to an unexpected victory, bouncing favorites Australia from the tournament.
South Korea’s 1-0 upset secured the team a place in the 2023 FIFA World Cup and delivered the Matildas their worst-ever Asian Cup result.
Ji-So-yun scored a goal in the 87th minute to upset #WAC2022 tournament favorites, Australia, and send South Korea to the semi-finals. 😯 pic.twitter.com/oU2wH0Epjc
— Attacking Third (@AttackingThird) January 30, 2022
Australia dominated much of the quarterfinal matchup, holding 65.6 percent of possession and out-shooting South Korea 14-7. The Matildas, however, were unable to covert in the final third, leaving the door open for South Korea in the waning minutes of the Asian Cup contest.
South Korea now advances to the semifinals, where they will face the Philippines, who defeated Chinese Taipei in penalties in their quarterfinal match.
Australia’s stunning loss comes 18 months ahead of the 2023 World Cup, which the country is set to host alongside New Zealand.