The national soccer team lost its first friendly match of the year, 1-0, to the United Arab Emirates.

UAE midfielder Faycal Khalil scored the lone goal in the 22nd minute.

Uninspired and sloppy play by strikers Lee Dong-guk and Kim Doo-hyun cost South Korea several golden chances to score.

The team left for Saudi Arabia immediately after the match to prepare for its game against Greece Saturday.