Just as he did in Korea DPR's opening game against England, supersub Rim Chol Min popped up with a goal in the closing moments to secure a 1-0 win over New Zealand at the Ulsan Complex Stadium. Having taken third in Group B with four points, the Koreans now face a nervous wait to see if they will be lining up in the last 16.

Clearly desperate for the points, Korea DPR kicked off with no fewer than six players occupying attacking positions. With An Il Boom pulling the midfield strings, it did not take the Asians long to start carving out the chances.

The hardworking New Zealanders seemed powerless to stem the tide, but did manage to create a fine opportunity of their own when Chris Wood failed to convert a free header. At the other end, meanwhile, keeper Michael O'Keeffe stood firm to keep the scores level at the break.

An Ye Gun's boys picked up where they left off after the restart, but ran out of steam and ideas as the minutes passed. Emboldened by their efforts, the Kiwis strung some fine moves together and even went close to taking the lead. Their sterling work was undone by an error at the back, however, as Rim Chol Min pounced for the winner.

Time will tell whether the supersub's second goal of the tournament has earned his side a place in the next round.