The Hindu : Sport / Football : South Korea: A team in transition

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Saturday, Feb 24, 2007
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South Korea: A team in transition

CHENNAI: While men's football has made giant strides in South Korea, it is not the same with the women's game.

"We are at the moment in a state of transition, trying to build a strong women's unit," said Cha Young, the Manager of the South Korean women's side which is here to play India in a pre-Olympic match on Sunday. "It is our goal to be in the top bracket along with Japan, China and North Korea, the current leaders in Asia," he said in a chat. The current team is a blend of experience and youth. Many of the players play in the under-19 circuit. "They will have a good experience of playing in alien conditions," he said, alluding to the warm weather as compared to the near zero temperatures back home.

"For all of us this is a first visit to India. We are more used to visiting Japan and China and to us that means no big difference. We knew little of India, though books tell us of the culture, religion and customs in your country," Cha said. The Koreans miss their home food though "tandoori chicken" is a favourite. "Back home in an Indian restaurant in Seoul that is a top dish," Cha said.

Pleasant surprise

On Indian women's football, he said, "We knew little. Even AFC could not help us much. So we were pleasantly surprised when we played them in Masan. The girls have skills. Initially they showed speed. But we found they could not last. They need to be strong and have stamina."

Hours after landing in the city, the Korean girls were out jogging as if to emphasise Cha's point about fitness. Rigorous practice sessions have followed in the last two days.

Yet, Cha is guarded: "I think the Indians are capable of holding us to a draw." — Special Correspondent

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