In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 EAFF E-1 Women’s Football Championship in Suwon, South Korea seized the title after defeating Chinese Taipei 2-0, while China and Japan battled to a tense 0-0 draw on Wednesday.
The match between China and Japan kicked off under heavy rain. Both teams showcased aggressive strategies with high pressing and swift attacks from the outset. Despite numerous opportunities, the first half ended without any goals.
As the relentless downpour continued in the second half, both squads struggled to find a breakthrough. In stoppage time, Japan’s Hana Takahashi had two close chances but narrowly missed, leaving the scoreline unchanged.
With one win and two draws each, China, Japan, and South Korea all finished the tournament with five points. Chinese Taipei concluded with three defeats. The top three teams were tied in points, head-to-head results, and goal difference. According to EAFF competition rules, final rankings were determined by the number of goals scored among the tied sides.
South Korea emerged victorious with three goals, followed by China with two and Japan with one. This triumph marks South Korea’s second East Asian Championship title and their first since 2005.
China’s coach Ante Milicic expressed pride in his team’s performance despite the challenging weather conditions. “Both teams worked hard despite the climate. I’m proud of the way my team played and fought,” he said.
