China's U-22 soccer team lost to South Korea, mainly composed of university students, 2-1 in their opening game at the 6th East Asian Games here on Sunday.
"Firstly, I apologize to all home fans today. We didn't play well, while the fans still expressed huge support for us," said Zhao Xufeng, coach of the Chinese team.
The hosts dominated the first 20 minutes with fine passes and didn't wait long for the goal. Forward Shen Tianfeng fired home a low shot to put the Chinese team 1-0 ahead.
S Korean team coach Park Mal Bong substituted Lee Yong Joon with Choi Gwon Su with 20 minutes remaining in the first half, which proved effective later.
After missing several opportunities, the South Koreans created their best chance, mainly thanks to forward Kim Sun Min. After sending the ball into the empty net in 33rd minute, Kim set up attacking partner Kwak Rae Seung for the second goal.
The hosts made two substitutions after the interval, then took the upper hand but were short of luck. In the 79th minute, Chinese players' two successive shots hit the post and cross bar separately.
"We made a full preparation before the game, but we just played well in 45 minutes. We showed our normal level in the second half, while we were a little nervous during the first one," said Zhao.
"It's a difficult game... We feel a little lucky," said Park Mal Bong.
In the other match played on Sunday, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea beat Japan 2-1.
