FIFA U17 World Cup - Group E

 

Result: South Africa 1-1 Korea DPR

 

Date: 22 October 2015

 

Venue: Estadio Municipal Ester Roa

 

South Africa's U17s could only manage a 1-1 draw against 10-man Korea DPR in the FIFA U17 World Cup on Thursday night.

 

Molefi Ntseki looked eager to put their opening game behind them and attack the North Koreans from the outset as Simon Nqoi unleashed a shot at goal in the first few minutes.

 

There was high drama early-on as Amajimbos earned a penalty only 10 minutes into the tie. Striker Luvuyo Mkatshana, who didn't make the starting lineup in the opening World Cup game, was brought down in the area by Ri Kuk Hyon. The referee pointed to the spot and showed Ri the red card.

 

Defender Thendo Mukumela was the man who stepped up to take the responsibility and the central defender made no mistake as he produced an emphatic finish from the spot before wheeling off in celebration.

 

Unfortunately for South Africa, a clumsy tackle from Katlego Mohamme earned Korea DPR a penalty of their own, which they slotted to level matters in the 17th minute. 

 

Sibongakonke Mbatha had a great chance to restore the lead for Amajimbos before the interval but he couldn't direct his shot goalwards.

 

North Korea should have been in front around the hour mark when Choe Jin Nam found himself in a good position to strike but he somehow missed the target with goalkeeper Mondli Mpoto beaten.

 

Despite enjoying a numbers advantage for the majority of the game, Amajimbos just couldn't find the winning goal.

 

Here's how they lined up: 

 

South Africa: Mondli Mpoto; Reeve Frosler; Katlego Mohamme; Thendo Mukumela; Simon Nqoi; Athenkosi Dlala; Nelson Maluleke (c); Sibongakonke Mbatha; Kobamelo Kodisang; Luvuyo Mkhatshana; Khanyisa Mayo

 

Korea DPR: Ri Chol Song, Ri Kuk Hyon, Kim Wi Song, Kim Ye Bom, Pak Yong Gwan, Yon Jun Hyok, Han Kwang Song, Choe Song Hyok, Jong Chang Bom, Choe Jin Nam, Jang Song Il