SYDNEY, March 5 (Xinhua) -- South Korea is all but assured of a quarterfinal spot in the AFC Women's Asian Cup after a 3-0 win over the Philippines at Gold Coast Stadium on Thursday.
South Korea has been living up to its title-contending reputation as it strives to go one step further than the runner-up finish at the last Asian Cup in 2022.
After a comfortable 3-0 opening win over Iran, South Korea was even sharper as it scored two goals within the first 15 minutes en route to a victory that puts the team on the brink of qualification for the last eight.
After a gritty defensive performance against host Australia on Sunday, the Philippines was cracked open by a ruthless South Korean side.
In the 12th minute, Jeon Yu-gyeong found herself open in the center of the box and produced a turn before blasting a stunning goal past goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel.
South Korea doubled its lead almost immediately when Park Soo-jeong fired a long-range strike into the top right corner.
Mun Eun-ju added another in the second half as South Korea cruised to victory.
South Korea will play Australia on Sunday in a game that will likely determine top spot of the group, while the Philippines faces Iran. ■
