The national soccer team on Saturday lost a close match to Costa Rica, 1-0.

In Oakland, California, Alvaro Saborio scored on a penalty kick in the 40th minute after being fouled on a breakaway.

In the second half, South Korea Coach Dick Advocaat sent in forwards Lee Dong-gook, Park Chu-young and Jung Jo-gook in an attempt to tie, but Costa Rica held on for the shutout.

Though dominating the game, South Korea hit the post twice in the first loss of its American tour.

The team faces seventh-ranked Mexico Wednesday.