Qatar coach Jurgen Klinsmann feels that South Korea is increasingly confident and creating trust with fans at the 2023 Asian Cup, just like Argentina did at the 2022 World Cup.
South Korea are just two games away from their first Asian Cup title in 64 years and face Jordan in the semi-finals tonight, February 6. "I think the confidence in the team has been built up," Jurgen Klinsmann said at a press conference yesterday, February 5. "The fans are also thinking the same and are supporting us. It's not an easy process."
South Korea were doubted from the group stage after two draws with Jordan and Malaysia. But after two spectacular escapes against Saudi Arabia in the round of 16 and Australia in the quarter-finals, confidence has risen. From being the fourth team in the Asian Cup's chances of winning, South Korea have now taken the lead in the semi-finals for the first time with a 32.9% chance, according to Opta. Iran is behind with 31.9%, Qatar with 26.9% and Jordan with 8.3%. The perception of Argentina's image at the 2022 World Cup is mentioned.
Coach Jurgen Klinsmann held a press conference before the match between South Korea and Jordan in the semi-finals of the 2023 Asian Cup. Photo: AFC
"I saw Argentina were very nervous after losing to Saudi Arabia in the opening match," Klinsmann shared. "If they lost to Mexico, they would have been eliminated in the group stage, but they overcame it and built confidence."
The former 1990 World Cup champion does not deny the technical and physical factors, but mental strength is especially important. Klinsmann advised the players not to listen to outsiders, just focus on the internal to create a positive atmosphere and stable spirit. In addition, the German coach pays attention to small details such as organizing a group dinner with the players' families, hoping to encourage the whole team before the big match.
"We are very hungry," said Klinsmann. "The team is in the semi-finals and wants to reach the final to achieve the goal."
South Korea is ranked 23rd in the FIFA rankings, 64 places above Jordan in terms of theoretical strength. The head-to-head record is three wins and three draws, with the most recent match ending in a tight 2-2 draw in the 2023 Asian Cup group stage. However, Opta still predicts a 69.6% chance of South Korea winning.
Jordan made history by reaching the semi-finals of the Asian Cup for the first time and are hungry for more. But coach Hussein Ammouta warned: "South Korea, the strongest nation in Asia, may have recovered both physically and mentally."
South Korea will be without their number one centre-back Kim Min-jae, who is suspended, at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium tonight. However, Jordan are not doing much better as they are without striker Ali Olwan and defender Salem Al-Ajalin, who are suspended, while midfielder Musa Al-Taamari has to train separately and is struggling to stay fit.
Hieu Luong
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