Korea DPR made a statement of intent with a stunning 4-2 win over Brazil in an action-packed encounter between two contrasting football styles. An 11-minute three-goal salvo to end the first half sent Korea DPR into the half-time break 4-1 in the ascendancy at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby.

The scoring started when Choe Sol Gyong bundled the ball home from close range after a corner was glanced onto the woodwork at the near post. Approaching the half-hour mark Geyse drilled in a near-post fierce shot, and from the ensuing corner Korea DPR failed to clear their lines allowing Gabi Nunes to turn the ball home amid a penalty area scramble.

Suddenly Brazil, for a few minutes at least, seemed to have found their swagger yet it was Korea DPR who scored next. After a trademark exchange of passes outside the penalty area Wi Jong Sim fired in low and hard, and goalkeeper Carla could only parry into the path of the onrushing Ri Hyang Sim.

Things went from bad to worse for Carla as Jon So Yon curled in a free-kick from the sideline which, perhaps aided by strong downfield wind, struck the back post and went in off the Brazilian custodian.

Brazil goalscorer Lais turned villain when she hauled down Kim So Hyang and Jon So Yon fired home the penalty with the last kick of the half. Brazil started the second half in perfect fashion as a cross went straight into the raised arm of a defender, and Brena converted the spot-kick for her third of the tournament.

But Brazil’s tough challenge became monumental when Giovanna was dismissed for a second yellow card on 63 minutes. The match lost some tempo in the latter stages but there was a late blow for Korea DPR with defender Ri Un Yong dismissed for a second caution.

Korea DPR now need just a point in their final Group A outing against Papua New Guinea to guarantee top spot, while Brazil are set for a winner takes all clash against Sweden.

Live Your Goals Player of the Match: Jon So Yon (Korea DPR)