Korea Loses to Japan in Women's E-1 Championship Opener

Korea lost to Japan 2-1 in the opener of the women's tournament at the East Asian Football Federation E-1 Championship in Kashima, Japan on Tuesday.

Japan took an early lead with the opening goal in the 33rd minute, but Korean midfielder Ji So-yun managed to level the score in the 59th minute. Japan, however, sealed its victory just six minutes later with a goal by Fuka Nagano.

Korea has set its sights high, aiming to win its first championship title in 17 years, but the loss to Japan means that is unlikely. The Korean women players led by English coach Colin Bell will compete against China on Saturday.

The biennial football tournament organized by the East Asian Football Federation features men's and women's teams from four East Asian countries and runs until July 27.

Korea's male footballers, led by manager Paulo Bento, are set to play their first match against China on Wednesday evening.