Bangladesh suffered a heavy 10-0 defeat to North Korea in their opening match of the Asian Games women’s football tournament on Monday, with the formidable North Korean side scoring seven times in the first half.
Bangladesh struggled to cope with North Korea’s pace and attacking pressure as the East Asian side raced into a commanding lead before the break.
North Korea added three more goals after halftime to complete a 10-0 victory, making a strong statement at the start of their Asian Games campaign.
The North Koreans, who have enjoyed considerable success at youth level, are among the favourites for the women’s football gold medal in Japan.
Striker Ri Song A, who was born and raised in Japan, was in North Korea’s starting line-up and also found the net in the second half.
Several hundred pro-Pyongyang supporters, many dressed in red, created a lively atmosphere in Osaka as they sang and chanted throughout the match.
The North Korean teams were welcomed by supporters waving flags when they arrived for the Games last week, wearing white blazers and pink ties.
More than 100 North Korean athletes are competing in 14 sports at the Games, which are being held in Nagoya-Aichi and officially open on September 19.
North Korea suspended participation in international sporting competitions during the pandemic but returned to the Asian Games at Hangzhou in 2023 and also competed at the Paris Olympics.
North Korea's women's team will next face South Korea in a Group F clash on September 21.
The North Korean men's team will begin their campaign against China on Wednesday.
