Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Sydney: Lee Jeong-hyeop and Han Kyo-won are confident that Korea Republic have what it takes to counter Australia’s home advantage in their crunch AFC Asian Cup final encounter on Saturday.
The Socceroos recorded a four-goal victory in each of their first two games – a 4-1 win over Kuwait in the competition’s opening game and a 4-0 thumping of Oman four days later.
But Australia’s joy was snapped in their third game by Lee (pictured) as the Sangju Sangmu man scored the only goal in the Koreans’ 1-0 Group A win over the host nation.
“Australia have the home advantage but Korea Republic have a good defence and can exert strong pressure going forward,” said the 23-year-old-striker ahead of the sold-out game at Stadium Australia.
“My team's victory over Australia in the group stages is a huge advantage as we know Australia's strengths and weaknesses.
“I think the reason we have not conceded any goals is that our defence is good, and the forwards apply pressure on the other team. We will do the same thing against Australia.
“A lot of people will be supporting Australia and they will have a home advantage, but we will try our best to break that advantage,” concluded Lee, who notched his third and latest goal for Korea in their 2-0 semi-final win over Iraq.
Like Lee, Han has featured in all of the Taeguk Warriors’ six games in the Asian Cup and is looking forward to the rematch against Australia which will be his ninth international cap.
“It’s an advantage that we have played them before because we know Australia’s strengths and weaknesses,” said Han, who plays his club football for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
“I’m very happy that I may be part of history for Korean football if we win this cup.”
Photo: WSG