Yongin: South Korea came up short of securing their sixth East Asian men's football title at home, succumbing to a 1-0 defeat to Japan in the tournament finale. The decisive match took place on Tuesday at the East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Football Championship at Yongin Mireu Stadium, located approximately 40 kilometers south of Seoul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ryo Germain scored the match's lone goal in the eighth minute, propelling Japan to victory. The world No. 17 ranked team clinched the four-nation tournament with a total of nine points, following earlier victories against Hong Kong (6-1) and China (2-0). Meanwhile, South Korea, ranked 23rd, finished as runners-up, having previously defeated China 3-0 and Hong Kong 2-0, amassing six points in front of 18,418 spectators.
This tournament marked the 10th edition of the top EAFF competition, with Japan now holding three titles, two fewer than South Korea. The match was crucial for South Korea, as they needed a win, while Japan required only a draw to secure their second consecutive EAFF title, thanks to their advantageous goal difference.
South Korea's historical record against Japan now stands at 42 wins, 23 draws, and 17 losses, with South Korea experiencing three consecutive losses to Japan for the first time. Japan has scored seven goals to South Korea's zero in these three matches.
South Korea's head coach, Hong Myung-bo, opted for a more seasoned lineup for this match, with midfielder Seo Min-woo being the only player with fewer than five international caps. Japan opened the scoring early, with Germain finding the net following a cross from Yuki Soma. South Korea's Lee Tae-seok was unable to contain Germain, who volleyed the ball home with his left foot.
Despite some defensive lapses by South Korea, Japan struggled with finishing in the box. South Korea's best scoring opportunity came in the 84th minute when substitute forward Lee Ho-jae fired a flying volley from close range, only for goalkeeper Keisuke Osako to make a diving save. Lee also missed a header just before the final whistle, sealing Japan's victory.