World Cup Preview: Argentina versus Korea Republic
Build-Up
Argentina and Korea Republic (South Korea) are set to meet on Thursday, the 17th June at the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg. Both the sides lock horns in Group B, coming into the games on a winning tale.
The Argentineans defeated the Nigerians 1-0 in their opening fixture, hence, starting their World Cup campaign on a winning note. Although the South Americans secured an emphatic victory, the score line does not suggest or give similar vibes.
However, it was revealed on Tuesday that Gabriel Heinze’s header which turned out to be the winning goal was illegal. A foul had been committed in the build-up to that goal. Whatever the case may be at the post-match analysis, the results remain intact and Diego Armanda Maradona’s side has three points tagged to their name in the point’s table standings.
The former world champions take on Asian giants South Korea on Thursday in a match that could decide their qualification for the second round. The Koreans are coming in with a victory over Greece 2-0 in style and team Argentina are well aware of the Asian powerhouse’s potential. Korea got the better of Greece, with goals from Lee Jung-soo and Park Ji-sung ensuring a 2-0 feat.
Both South Korea and Argentina are strong contenders to qualify from the pool. One thing is certain; whoever wins in Johannesburg on Thursday is likely to take the pole position in the group.
A lot has been said and heard of Maradona's coaching style but the Argentina legend seems to have won the hearts of his fans all across the globe and has created a strong bond within his team members. Most importantly, the controversial coach appears to have finally got the best out of Barcelona-man Lionel Messi.
Messi has not been able to carry his domestic performance onto the international stage. He has faced heavy criticism in the past for it, but he was stifling and electric against Nigeria. Unluckily he could not end up on the score sheet.
However, South Korea proved that they are no pushovers in their match against Greece. A combination of slick passing and a good work ethic makes them lethal and difficult to oppose.
The Koreans are, in fact, topping Group B standings in terms of goal difference after that win. They will be keen to remain in pole position and eventually clinch the qualification for the second round of the 2010 World Cup with a victory over Argentina on Thursday.
Nevertheless, it is always easier said than done and a draw is what either of the teams should be happy enough with since both are equally competent. After all, Argentina is a more talented side whereas the Koreans are arguably more organised.
TEAM NEWS
Argentina
The South Americans have no real injury worries, except one, going into the match against South Korea. Coach Maradona might be forced to make some changes to the side that defeated Nigeria.
Argentina will be without midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron, who sat out training on Tuesday as he had strained his right calf against Nigeria. Maradona will most probably rest him.
The former Manchester United and Chelsea man is likely to be replaced by Maxi Rodriguez, as he replaced him in the opening game.
Roma's Nicolas Burdisso’s entry is speculated while Jonas Gutierrez may keep his place in the side.
South Korea
Striker Lee Donk-Guk is likely to return following his recovery from a thigh injury in the starting line-up and will replace Yeom Ki-Hun.
If Dong-guk does return, South Korea manager Huh Jung-Moo, who played against Maradona in the 1986 World Cup could go with a more cautious 4-5-1 formation with Park Chu-Yong pushing out wide.
Jung Song-ryong is likely to remain in goal after Huh's surprising decision to axe Lee Woon-jae against Greece.
PREDICTION
Argentina is the obvious favourite but they must not boast about their chances – they still have to play quality football. South Korea is a well organised, crafty side who can take advantage of their defensive shortcomings. Despite this, the Argentineans should win this match.
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