By Jocelyn Chui
Northwest Asian Weekly
Image by NWAW staff
The World Cup has been going on for two weeks, and the Asian teams have experienced plenty of ups and downs.
South Korea advances to the next stage
With four points, Korea Republic (South Korea) earned second place in group B and will be advancing to the round of 16, a knockout competition with 16 teams remaining. Korea Republic will play against Uruguay this Saturday.
Say bye to North Korea
After losing to Brazil 1–2 and to Portugal 0–7, North Korea will not advance to the round of 16. Even so, people in North Korea were happy to watch their country’s team play on TV because it was the first live broadcast of the World Cup in North Korea.
 |
North Korea has come a long way — 44 years — since its first appearance at the World Cup in 1966. To the North Koreans back home, watching their country participating in a worldwide soccer event is seeing their country being accepted and recognized on an international level even in light of current political dynamics.
Japan’s destiny lies in Thursday’s game
Currently tied with Denmark in points gained, a win or a tie will bring Japan to the next level. Keep your fingers crossed. ♦
Jocelyn Chui can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.