The preseason procession rolled into Korea on the Seoul train this week, as a jam-packed crowd witnessed European heavyweights Juventus taking on a K League all-stars team. We took our seats for the next instalment in our ‘Framed’ series.
The Serie A champions named a relatively strong starting side for the clash with a selection of South Korea's best domestic performers, including run outs for new signing Matthijs de Ligt. Despite being one of the most sought-after defenders available this summer, there was nothing de Ligt could do about the stunning seventh-minute opener, as FC Seoul midfielder Osmar unleashed a 25-yard rocket into the top left corner.
The closest the 60,000-plus Korean crowd got to seeing Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch was when Daegu forward Cesinha scored on the stroke of half-time, mimicking the Portugal legend's famous goal celebration along with several teammates, all done with the best intentions of tribute rather than taunt, which was clear when the Brazilian bowed to the Portuguese.
That goal followed an earlier Juve equaliser through Simone Muratore, but Australian Adam Taggart extended the margin to 3-1 five minutes after the interval. Blaise Matuidi's header and a splendid solo effort from midfielder Matheus Pereira three minutes later ensured Juve avoided what would have been a second defeat in three pre-season outings under Maurizio Sarri.
Photography by Steven Halliwell for SoccerBible.
