In a nail-biting opener at the Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China’s men’s ice hockey team fell 6-5 to South Korea after a dramatic overtime showdown. The game, played in front of a roaring home crowd, showcased fierce competition and a comeback-fueled third period.
South Korea struck first with Lee Chong-min’s early goal, but China responded aggressively. Captain Zhang Jiaqi and Yan Juncheng put the hosts ahead 2-1 by the first period. By the second period, China extended their lead to 4-1 with goals from Zheng Mingju and Guo Jianing, only to see South Korea claw back with three unanswered goals, including a last-minute equalizer to force OT.
Kim Sang-wook sealed South Korea’s victory with a late overtime goal, capitalizing on a rebound after a clutch save by Chinese goalie Chen Shifeng. “We faced a strong opponent today and learned valuable lessons,” said Zhang. “Our young team will keep fighting for a podium finish.”
In other Group A action, Japan dominated Chinese Taipei 15-0, while Kazakhstan overpowered Thailand 12-0. The women’s tournament saw South Korea defeat China’s Hong Kong 8-0 and Kazakhstan triumph over Thailand 9-0.
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China lose to South Korea in OT in ice hockey at Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com
