Japan, South Korea triumphant at East Asian soccer

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Friday, December 05, 2003

Japan, South Korea triumphant at East Asian soccer

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Zheng Zhi in the match

Japan taught China how to play soccer in a convincing 2-0 victory, while World Cup hero Ahn Jung-hwan led South Korea to a 3-1 win over Hong Kong, China, in the East Asian soccer championship on Thursday.

The hosts stunned the Chinese just five minutes into the game at National Stadium as Tatsuhiko Kubo connected a clever pass from Mitsuo Ogasawara to score his first goal in 15 international appearances.

Kubo hit the post in the 63rd minute and put in the second goal10 minutes from time.

Ahn, South Korea's answer to David Beckham, whose goals sent South Korea into the 2002 World Cup semifinals, sealed victory with a close-range header in the 57th minute, seven minutes after Kim Do-hoon had made it 2-1.

Yang Chen and Li Weifeng

Depleted by the absence of several Europe-based players, South Korea jumped ahead in the 23rd minute when midfielder Kim Do-heon left-footed home from 20 meters.

Nigerian-born striker Lawrence Akandu surged through the South Korea defense to equalize 10 minutes later.

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