|
Prior to the kick off of the World Cup the dream of the Korean people was for the national team to make it into the second round, but that dream went much further with Team Korea making one historic achievement after another as it became the first country in Asia to reach the semifinals. Along the way, Korea tied with the United States and downed European powerhouses Poland, Portugal, Italy and Spain, only to be stopped 1:0 by Germany in its semifinal match.
Under the guidance of head coach Guus Hiddink, who revamped Korea's soccer system with a tighter defense and sharper offense, the national team outlasted most opponents and came to the end of their World Cup odyssey finishing in fourth place on Saturday.
"I have worked here for the 18 months trying to help the people, the players to get very competitive. I think they reacted very well and also thanks to the Korean public. I'm very happy that I could work here," said Hiddink.
Football fans known as the Red Devils kept on cheering even after the loss, knowing that the 2002 World Cup signals a whole new beginning for Korean soccer with a higher level of play as well as fan support.
"We achieved much more than we expected. I'm proud to be Korean with many victories achieved over the world's soccer powers."
"What can I say, our players did really well. On behalf of the entire nation, I'd like to give them a big hand for their achievement."
The awe-inspiring sight of millions of Koreans merging in a sea of red to root for their team will now pass on as another success story of the World Cup.
"I've never experienced this sense of unity and passion in my entire 50 years."
"I hope this soccer fever will lead the way to improving our economy."
"It will take a while for many Koreans to pick up their daily routines.
This year's World Cup has certainly brought the whole country together bringing national pride to its peak.
(Arirang TV)
|
