Penalties see lacklustre Norway beat Korea to seal last 16 spot

REIMS: Two penalties were enough to book Norway's ticket to the last 16 at the women's World Cup after an uninspiring 2-1 win against a feisty South Korea team that restored some pride after losing their first two games.

Barcelona-bound Caroline Graham Hansen slotted home a penalty in the fourth minute after South Korea captain Cho Sohyun tugged defender Maria Thorisdottir's shirt.

Hansen was brought down early in the second-half with forward Isabell Herlovsen converting from the spot in the 50th minute to double Norway's lead.

Yeo Minji pull one back for the Koreans in the 78th minute after Lee Geummin's magical backheeled through ball but despite some late pressure they could not level.

Norway join hostsĀ FranceĀ in the last 16 and will face either Italy, Brazil or Australia, while Korea finished with no points.