ABU DHABI // The UAE's World Cup hopes were given a severe blow when North Korea ran out 2-1 winners in their opening qualifying match in Group 2 at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium. The Koreans struck twice in the second half through Choe Kum Chol and substitute An Chol Hyok. Basheer Saeed scored a consolation for the UAE six minutes from the end, the first goal the Koreans have conceded in seven matches. It was a disappointing result for Bruno Metsu's men who enjoyed the major share of the possession, particularly in the first half, but failed to score against the defensive-minded visitors. The UAE created several chances, but for all the tidy possession they couldn't edge ahead, although they did come close on several occasions. Ismail Matar fired just over the crossbar before Abdulraheem Jumaa put the ball wide in front of an empty goalmouth after a defensive blunder from the Koreans. Mohammed al Shehhi also failed to latch on to a cross from Subait Khater, while Ismail al Hammadi had an effort that went wide. The Koreans, having seen off the first half, were a different side after the break. Having succeeded in holding the UAE off the scoresheet, and having preserved their energy in sweltering conditions, they were able to breach the home defence and record a vital win. @Email:apassela@thenational.ae