- What’s your overall impression of the game?

I am happy that Korea has accomplished its long wish, and grateful to the team members who demonstrated over 100% capacity. I want to take a good rest with a glass of wine tonight."

- What was the driving force of the victory?

"We effectively contained the Portuguese from the midfield from the beginning, not allowing Portugal to score any goals in the first half. I am confident of the players’ physical strength, so we could push hard from the beginning. I ordered three to four players to stick to the ball at the same time, and they followed my order."

- You weren’t planning to play for the draw?

"A team that falls behind in objective strength can never achieve its goal with a strategy to draw. We can’t predict the result even when we fight to win, so a strategy aiming to draw is unthinkable, and it’s not our style."

- The starting lineup was not quite what we expected.

"I prioritized the defensive players who could mark the Portuguese midfield lineup."

- What is the strategy against Italy, who Team Korea will face in the second round?

"I have been preparing for the matches past the second round even before the World Cup started. Italy is a completely different team from the Portuguese in terms of style, so we will have a different strategy. Italy has a superior defense lineup, and it is essential to penetrate into this thick defense line. The second round against Italy will be a tough one, but confidence is dominating Team Korea."

- Did you expect Team Korea to proceed to the second round?

"Frankly, I doubted if Korea could attain international-level soccer three months ago. But Korean players are hardworking, and they trusted me and followed my training routine. Korean players are surprised at the pace of their improvment."

- How do you feel about the support and cheers?

"The entire nation passionately cheered for us, and I am happy that I had brought them joy and satisfaction."

(An Yong-hyun, justice@chosun.com )