BANGKOK, July 2 (silubaba) -- Japan surged past a 10-man South Korean team with a 3-0 victory to claim the AFC U-17 Asian Cup on Sunday.
Both teams launched into action quickly in the match, each side failing to capitalize on opportunities to break the deadlock. The game's momentum shifted in the 43rd minute when South Korean defender Ko Jong-hyun received his second yellow card for a foul just outside the box.
To compound their rivals' misfortune, Gaku Nawata capitalized on the resulting free-kick by artfully curling the ball over the wall and past the South Korean goalkeeper, giving Japan a 1-0 lead before halftime.
Faced with a deficit and down one player, South Korea struggled to mount a sturdy defense while pursuing an equalizer. Nawata struck again in the 66th minute after his team penetrated the South Korean penalty area.
Despite South Korea's continued efforts to push forward, Japan found their third goal in extra time, securing the championship trophy. ■
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