U-17 World Cup: Cameroon broke down when Korea machine got rolling – Ndoumou

Just like Morocco, Cameroon suffered their second straight defeat in the on-going FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after losing 2-1 against North Korea on Tuesday.

The opening fixture saw Cameroon lose 4-3 against the Netherlands. Korea DPR struck a 98th-minute winner to clinch victory over Cameroon. The African side took a shock lead on the stroke of half-time when Lys Tiwa headed in after Ange Tazanou’s shot was parried by goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong.

Korea moved level when Ri Ui-gyong set up Kim Won-sim to slide home a first-time finish. The title holders then steadfastly hunted another goal but Cameroon held firm and looked set to bank a precious point.

There was to be incredible late drama, however, as Kim headed in another Ri cross to secure maximum points and a knockout round berth for Korea DPR.

Ndoumou terms Cameroon’s defeat very disappointing

Speaking after the game, Cameroon coach Josephine Ndoumou told FIFA.com: “I feel disappointed – that’s the nature of the game. We had prepared our players because we expected that kind of physical resistance from the (Koreans).

“Unfortunately, it’s youth, and when the opposing machine got rolling, we broke down. Sadly, we lost just a few minutes before the end, it’s really disappointing.”

Cameroon goalkeeper Jessica Mabou told the same portal: “I feel very disappointed and frustrated. We gave it everything, we deserved something, but we came away with nothing. We lost, but we also learned a lot.

“We need to stay focused and keep believing, because we have faith. It’s not over yet: if we manage to beat Mexico, we’ll have three points and can still hope to qualify.”

Cameroon will wind up their group fixtures against Mexico on Friday.