China came back from two goals down to defeat Korea 3-2 in a dramatic final and clinch their record-extending ninth title of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Mumbai on Sunday. China had earlier won the title in 1986, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1997, 1999 and in 2006.
Korea looked to be cruising to their maiden crown after taking a 2-0 lead courtesy Choe Yu-ri (27’) and Ji So-yun (45+3’) (P) at half-time but China fought back after the breakthrough goals from Tang Jiali (68’) (P), Zhang Linyan (72’) and Xiao Yuyi, who netted the winner deep into added time to seal her side the title at the DY Patil Stadium.
China’s triumph is doubly special for head coach Shui Qingxia, a five-time winner of this tournament as a player, becomes the first former player to win this title as a coach.
Sam Kerr of Australia won the Top scorer of the tournament with Seven goals. China’s Zhu Yu and Wang Shanshan were adjudged best goalkeeper and most valuable player of the tournament respectively.
Picture Courtesy: AFC Media
