After Japan lost 1-2 to Iran and were eliminated from the 2023 Asian Cup, South Korea is becoming the strongest candidate for the championship title. Unlike the tension in previous press conferences, coach Jurgen Klinsmann appeared with a smiling face. However, the German strategist also showed caution: "I am very happy to play in the semi-finals. I also want to praise our opponent Jordan - the team we met in the group stage. Through the matches, the Korean team felt how difficult it was for them in this year's tournament.
I don't dare to think about the final match, so don't ask me whether Korea wants to meet Iran or Qatar. The Korean team will try their best to prepare for the semi-final match. I hope the whole team will have a positive result."
Coach Jurgen Klinsmann was less tense than in previous press conferences.
After the tense match with the Australian team, many Korean players said they felt pressured because it had been 64 years since the "Kimchi" team had won the championship. That task was even more difficult, especially when Korea would be without their number one center back, Kim Min-jae, due to suspension.
“The expectations and pressure seemed to change dramatically as the tournament went on. Argentina also lost to Saudi Arabia in their first game at the World Cup and you could see how nervous they were in the group stages. We went through the same situation, it was a process. Now that Korea are in the semi-finals, we have built up our confidence.
It is very difficult for players to maintain their form and confidence. The most important thing in competition is mental strength and mentality. Now the marathon is entering the sprint stage. Our goal is to cross the finish line in first place.
I heard that many people in Korea have the same expectations, cheering us on until late at night. It becomes a great motivation for the players every time they go on the field,” coach Jurgen Klinsmann continued.
Jurgen Klinsmann's South Korea team is facing the expectation of winning the championship after 64 years
At the end of the press conference, coach Jurgen Klinsmann continued to smile brightly when reporters asked about the message he wanted to send to his students.
The 59-year-old coach said: "First of all, you need to relax. I also told the players not to worry too much about unimportant things. No matter what the media or outside says, our job is not to care about it.
The Korean team had a small party a few days ago. Even the players' families came and it was a relaxed atmosphere. Tomorrow, I don't know if the match will last 90 minutes, 120 minutes or a penalty shootout. The important thing is to do our best to achieve the goal."
The Korean team's spirit is also more relaxed after the days of rest.
Meanwhile, Jordan coach Hussein Ammouta also expressed confidence: "This will be a difficult match. All our players are ready to advance to the final. Jordan will not defend but we have a strategy to play against the Korean team.
Of course, the Jordan team did not let their guard down when they drew with South Korea in the group stage. Our opponents have improved in both spirit and form. Although they played twice in 120 minutes, everyone knows how good the Korean team's skills and physical strength are. Of course, playing 90 minutes is better than 120 minutes. But sometimes, that doesn't mean anything. I rate the Korean team as the most professional and strongest team in Asia at the moment."
Mr. Hussein Ammouta rated the Korean team very highly but affirmed that Jordan will also do everything to reach the final.
The semi-final match between South Korea and Jordan will take place at 10pm on February 6 at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium. Experts rate South Korea higher, especially when they have just won 2 victories against strong teams such as Saudi Arabia and Australia. However, Jordan also has excellent players and is ready to bring surprises to coach Jurgen Klinsmann's students.
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