USA loses in final of inaugural U-17 Women’s World Cup 2:1 to Korea DPR

November 17, 2008

AUCKLAND, New Zealand – The United States surrendered an equalizing goal with 13 minutes remaining and another with seven minutes to go in extra time to lose 2:1 to Korea DPR on Sunday in the final of the inaugural Under-17 Women’s World Cup.

Despite having slightly better possession, the United States was outshot 31:16 before a crowd of 16,162.

The USA led after only two minutes on a fluke goal when Cloee Colohan launched a deep throw-in. With winds gusting, the ball bounced and Korea DPR goalkeeper Hong Myong-hui misplayed it, only managing to tip into her own net.

Korea DPR equalized in the 77th minute when a 30-yard shot by second-half substitute Ri Un-ae hit the crossbar and Kim Un-Hyang knocked in the ball during the ensuing scramble.

With the game seemingly headed for penalties, Jang Hyon-sun gave Korea DP the title, eluding Colohan before launching a low, right-footed shot from the top of the area for the winner.

"Obviously we’re disappointed but North Korea played a tremendous game and we congratulate them," USA coach Kazbek Tambi said. "They did a great job of closing us down and outplayed us at times."

Besides their silver medals for finishing runners-up, the United States also took home individual honors led by Taylor Vancil, who received the Golden Glove award as the tournament’s best goalkeeper. Midfielder Kristie Mewis was presented with the Bronze Ball as third-best player in the tournament – as selected by media covering the event, and Victoria DiMartino received the Silver Shoe for scoring five goals and finishing as the second-leading scorer.

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