By Yoon Chul
South Korea’s soccer team, looking to grab gold for the first time in 24 years in the Asian Games, lost to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) 1-0 at the end of extended play in a semifinal match, Tuesday.
UAE forward Alabry Ahmed Ali collected the ball in the box and his shot made the difference.
Though the Koreans dominated the game they couldn’t get past UAE goalkeeper ― and captain ― Ali Khaseif Housani.
While South Korea is one of powerhouses of football in Asia, qualifying for seven consecutive World Cups since 1986,
Advancing to the Asian Games final proved to be tough.
The Taegeuk Warriors controlled the pitch but Housani managed to deny them this advantage, saving all shots on target.
If European club scouts watched the match, they could be interested in the Middle Easter goalkeeper.
The UAE kept to their back line, pulling midfielders into it, but their counterattacks strongly threatened the Korean net several times.
In the second half especially in the stoppage time Korea generated great one-on-one chances but all of them were saved by Housani.
In extra time he shone further, denying Korea four decisive shots.
In the 118th minute, Korea eventually hit the net but the score was adjudged offside.
Finally, the UAE answered their captain’s efforts on the right side of the penalty area where close passing allowed Alabry Ahmed Ali to rifle a shot in for the victory.
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