FIFA confirmed on SAT 16 JUL 2011 that three other Korea DPR players, in addition to the two previously announced, have failed drug tests at the 2011 Women’s World Cup. After the team’s match against Sweden in Group C, SONG Jong Sun and JONG Pok Sim both tested positive. By rule, when multiple players on a team fail drug tests, the entire squad must be tested; three other, yet unnamed, players failed these tests. According to FIFA, the Korea DPR football federation blamed the test results on a traditional Chinese treatment involving the glands of musk deer. The players involved face suspensions of up to two years.

FIFA announced on THU 07 JUL 2011 the provisional suspension of two Korea DPR defenders, SONG Jong Sun and JONG Pok Sim, after both players failed drug tests taken after the team’s 1-0 loss to Sweden in Group C. The players were both ineligible to compete in the last match, a goalless draw against Colombia, and as required when multiple players test positive, all other Korean players were tested after that match. FIFA has not publicly stated what substances were found, but has confirmed that Jong’s and Song’s B samples are to be tested.

One Nordic side goes home, while another records a historic victory, on WED 06 JUL 2011. more...

As with the other groups, the élite separated themselves from the rest in Group C on SAT 02 JUL 2011. more...

The story as Group C opened was one of victories by the favourites, but still with missed opportunities. more...

Though football is often a subjective game, most observers could agree that Group B of the 2010 AFC Women’s Asian Cup was the Group of Death, as hosts China PR must face off against Australia, Korea Rep, and Vietnam. The eight team tournament, to be held in Chengdu, China PR, opens on WED 19 MAY 2010 with defending Asian champions Korea DPR facing Thailand. The top three sides qualify for the 2011 Women’s World Cup. more...

The eight team field for the 2010 AFC Women’s Asian Cup has been decided as Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam won their respective second preliminary round groups. All three did so by winning both of their matches. These teams join automatic qualifiers Australia, China PR, Japan, Korea Rep, and Korea DPR in the Women’s Asian Cup, to be held in Chengdu, China PR, next year. The top three teams in the tournament qualify for the 2011 Women’s World Cup.