Matildas lose against North Korea

Matildas go down to DPR Korea

The Matildas lost 2-0 overnight in their vital Olympic qualifier in Pyongyang. The loss makes Sunday’s return game in Coff’s Harbour absolutely crucial.

The home side scored either side of half time in front a boisterous capacity crowd of 30,000 at the Yanggakdo Stadium. DPR Korea captain Ri Kum Suk scored both goals for the home side in the match played in warm and humid conditions.

The Matildas must win if they are to go to the Beijng Olympics. Hopefully they get a big home support and the team gets the victory.

With the Matildas superior goal difference a win would set them up nicely for the last two games.

The Matildas will be without the services of influential attacking defender Heather Garriock who will be forced to sit out the match having received a second caution of the qualifying campaign.

The Matildas fly back on Wednesday and will be desperate to get the win next Sunday.

Sunday’s game will be shown live on SBS at 3pm. It is the Matildas most crucial game for years.

DPR Korea are Asia’s highest ranked team listed at 5 on the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, while Australia are now ranked at an all-time high of 14.