Eun-joong also asked for the support of all Asians as they face a formidable Flying Eagles side that eliminated hosts, Argentina
By Kehinde Okeowo
South Korea head coach, Kim Eun-joong, has praised the Flying Eagles of Nigeria, saying they are a physical and flexible team.
Following a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Ecuador on Thursday, the Asians were drawn to face Ladan Bosso’s boys in the quarter-finals of the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup going on in Argentina.
The Flying Eagles stunned the world with a historic 2-0 victory over one of the pre-tournament favourites and six-time World Cup champions, Argentina, at the La Plata Stadium.
The Korean coach after watching Nigeria’s U-20 team against the South Americans, admitted that they are a good side but insisted his team will prepare for them.
Speaking to Chosun before the match, he said: “When I watched the game against Argentina yesterday, the Nigerian team seemed to be very well prepared. Players in all positions are physically outstanding and have flexibility. We will do the analysis properly.”
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He went on to describe his team as a young side and sought the support of all Asians as they faced the formidable West African team.
“I think the young players were able to give their all on the field because of the interest and support in the early hours every time. We will prepare hard for the match against Nigeria, so please support us from afar. As an Asian team, Korea is the only team that maintains its pride, so I will prepare well for the next game and produce good results with a sense of responsibility and pride as an Asian representative.” he added.
Nigeria and South Korea, who are the only African and Asian sides left in the competition, are scheduled to meet at the Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades in Santiago del Estero on Sunday evening.
The winner of the encounter will progress to the semi-final stage where they will face either Italy or Colombia for a spot in the final.