Klinsmann warns South Korea-SEOUL (AFP) – Jurgen Klinsmann is hopeful his South Korea side will reach the Asian Cup final, but warned on Sunday there would be “drama” and “nail-biting” along the way.
Led by striker Son Heung-min, they are aiming for their first title since 1960 and are among the favorites in Qatar.
South Korea will be hoping to start their campaign against Bahrain with a win on Monday, but Klinsmann warned: “The first match is a very important match if you want it.” It’s good that every competition starts.
“Every match will be difficult. All teams in Qatar must be here and be strong,” said the famous German player, who won the World Cup as a player.
“I think our team is strong and the goal is to be here at the end of the tournament and play the final,” said Klinsmann, who took over as South Korean coach in February last year.
“This team obviously has the quality to win the tournament, but it will be a long, long battle, it will be a marathon.”
“Every match will be nerve-wracking, there will be drama, but that’s what competition is about.”
In addition to Spurs striker Son, South Korea also has Hwang Hee-chan, who has scored a goal in every Wolverhampton Wanderers match in the Premier League this season.
The player said joining his country was a special moment and ruled out any talk of fatigue due to the intensity of the Premier League.
“When we join the national team, we don’t talk about our fatigue or stress, we don’t talk about being tired,” the 27-year-old said.
“We have prepared well for this tournament. I want to do everything I can and achieve the desired result.”
