Sabah FA, a club from Malaysia losing to Incheon Red Angels, a club from Korea Republic scoring 0-3 in the AFC Women’s Champions League 2024/25 Group Stage, Group A at Hankou Cultural Sports Centre, Wuhan.
Despite a spirited defensive display, Sabah struggled to contain the dominant Red Angels, who were heavily favored going into the encounter.
The Red Angels started on the front foot, living up to their reputation as one of the tournament’s powerhouses. Sabah, who earned their spot in the group stage by winning the Preliminary Group C, faced the tough challenge of holding off the relentless Korean side. Early on, their defense, anchored by resolute efforts, managed to repel several attacking moves from Red Angels.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute in unfortunate circumstances for Sabah. A handball by Juliana Barek inside the box led to a penalty being awarded to the Red Angels. Sabah goalkeeper Azurin Mazlan initially saved Park Ye-eun’s spot-kick, but Jang Chang pounced on the rebound to give the Red Angels the lead.
Sabah’s defensive struggles continued as Red Angels extended their advantage seven minutes later. Engesha, capitalizing on a well-delivered free-kick from Choo Hyo-joo, headed home to make it 2-0. Engesha’s brilliance shone through again before halftime, as she scored a clinical third goal from just outside the box, putting the Red Angels firmly in control at the break.
In the second half, Sabah tightened their defense, preventing further damage. However, the Red Angels were content to manage their comfortable lead, controlling possession and seeing out the match with relative ease. Sabah’s efforts to mount a comeback were stifled by the disciplined Korean defense, leaving them unable to find a way back into the game.
With this result, Incheon Red Angels secure a commanding victory as they gear up to face Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Sabah FA, meanwhile, will look to bounce back in their next match against Wuhan Jiangda, as they aim to regroup and reignite their AFC Women’s Champions League campaign.
Credit Photo : Sabah FA
