Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Seoul: Korea Republic’s blockbuster performance in the 2002 World Cup has been working as a catalyst of inspiration for midfielder Nam Tae-hee who has a dream of making it into the Taeguk Warriors’ 2014 World Cup squad and putting on some inspirational show.
Nam was a 10-year old kid when Korea famously defeated European giants in the likes of current World champions Spain, Portugal and four-time World Cup champions Italy to finish fourth in the 2002 World Cup co-hosted by his country and Japan.
Speaking to FIFA.com, the Qatari club Lekhwiya midfielder said: “I watched Korea/Japan 2002 when I was a kid and I’ve been dreaming of playing in the World Cup ever since. I hope to be able to take part in what is a global event one day.”
Being a linchpin in Lekhwiya midfield and being heavily involved in the World Cup qualifiers, Nam is a sure shot for making into the final squad as he feels that the team are now getting more competitive than before.
“The improving standard of Asian football has made it much harder than it used to be in the past.
“Luck was on our side in quite a few games. Even so, I think we deserved to go through because we’ve put in some good displays,” he added.
Uzbekistan were looking comfortable to progress midway through the final round of qualifications but results elsewhere and some stunning comeback from Iran ensured two automatic places for Iran and Korea Republic in Group A with the Uzbeks getting a play-off against Jordan which they lost over the two-legs.
Ever since the draw was made, Nam has been discussing a lot about the possibilities in Group H where Korea Republic face Fabio Capello-led Russia, Algeria and the golden generation of Belgium.
Though the match against Russia would be the first official international match for the Koreans, Nam’s surrounding in Lekhwiya has ample information on Algeria and Belgium with Madjid Bougherra captaining both Lekhwiya and Algeria and coach Eric Gerets being a Belgian and having experiences of coaching in the country as he was two-time Belgium Professional Manager of the Year.
“It’s a difficult group and it’s going to be hard for us, for sure,” Nam said.
“The match against Russia will be the most important one because it’s our first. Then we’ll just have to see how we go against Belgium and Algeria, who are both good sides.
“I talk to Madjid every day about the World Cup, and our coach, Gerets, is Belgian. He talks to us about the competition too and each team’s chances.”