Korea Republic brace for ‘important’ Westfield Matildas clash after big win over Argentina

Korea Republic head coach Yoon Deok-yeo says he hopes the Cup of Nations will continue to provide his side with crucial experience as they prepare for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Korea Republic swatted aside Argentina 5-0 in their opening match at Leichhardt Oval, with Ji So-yun scoring a brace to help the Asian side to victory.

REPORT: Gielnik, Raso on target as Westfield Matildas cruise past New Zealand
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CUP OF NATIONS: Five-star Korea Republic thump Argentina

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Speaking post-match, the Korean manager said he would continue to tinker with his starting line-up.

“In today’s match we played the young players and we wanted to test the combination of centre-backs so it wasn’t the best 11,” Yoon said.

“This was a little different to what I am thinking is the best 11 for my team, I wanted to test new players so this was an important meeting for them.”


Korea Republic now turn their attention to Matchday Two and Suncorp Stadium where they will face a Westfield Matildas side fresh off a 2-0 win over New Zealand.

Yoon said playing Australia would prove an invaluable experience especially against star striker and captain Sam Kerr.

“Australia is a good team and they have many experienced players…it won’t be easy, Australia is the same type of team we will face at the World Cup so it will be an important game,” he said.

“Of course, I know her [Kerr] very well! She’s one of the best players in Australia, I met her at the Asian Cup.

Korea v Argentina


“She has a very good ability to score and [is] very strong.

"In preparation for the World Cup we will have to face her, there will be many Sam Kerr’s there so this will be a good opportunity to prepare.”

Meanwhile, Argentina head coach Carlos Borrello said his side failed to deal with Korea Republic’s pressure in the second half as the Taegeuk Ladies ran in four goals after the interval.

“We came here to get experience for the World Cup because this is almost a new experience for the entire team,” Borrello said.

“We know that we are facing important teams, in the first half we could manage the difference but in the second half the intensity of the other team was too much for us.”

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