Korea won the Men's Asia Cup and earned a ticket for the 2010 FIH World Cup after defeating 1-0 in the final of the Asian Continental Championships in Kuantan, Malaysia. China took the bronze medal after defeating Malaysia on penalty strokes (3-3).
The final between Korea and Pakistan was a very equal match, especially in the first half. Both teams had their chances, but there were no scores in the first half. Although Pakistan had several penalty corners, it was Korea that scored the only goal of the final. Kim Byung Hoon gave Korea the victory by scoring in the 66th minute.
The bronze medal match was an interesting clash between China and Malaysia. China finally won after a penalty stroke competition. Malaysia had the better chances, being 2-1 up at half time, but the Chinese team fought back tremendously and took the bronze medal.
With the victory at the Men's Asia Cup, Korea also grabbed a ticket for the 2010 FIH World Cup, to be played in New Delhi, India from 7-20 March 2010. Runner-up Pakistan, China, Malaysia and Japan will have another chance during one of the World Cup qualifiers later this year. India is automatically qualified as host of the FIH World Cup.
Results Men's Asia Cup:
Final
Korea - Pakistan 1-0 (0-0)
Bronze medal match:
China - Malaysia 3-3 (1-2) China wins after penalty stroke competition
Final standings:
1. Korea (qualified for 2010 FIH World Cup)
2. Pakistan (qualified for World Cup Qualification Tournament)
3. China (qualified for World Cup Qualification Tournament)
4. Malaysia (qualified for World Cup Qualification Tournament)
5. India (qualified for 2010 FIH World Cup as hosting country)
6. Japan (qualified for World Cup Qualification Tournament)
7. Bangladesh
Please click here for a full overview of the Asia Cup results.
