China pulls off 1-1 tie with DPR Korea in women's soccer friendly

NANJING, China, Dec. 27 (Xinhua) -- Hosts China earned a hard-fought 1-1 tie with DPR Korea in a women's soccer friendly here on Sunday afternoon.

The visitors almost controlled the game, making 1-0 lead in the35th minute when Hu En-bei dribbled in China's box and fired a low shot.

Chinese star forward Han Duan tied the score on 55 minutes through a header.

China coach Shang Ruihua said after the match that he had fielded all his key players but the opponents showed more strength.

"I am satisfied with my players' performances and the result," said Shang. "It is not easy to draw with such a tough rival."

During the match, DPR Korea squandered many scoring chances, including a goal-mouth tap and two shots on the posts.