Korea fear Hodak’s side
NOTHING is impossible for national Under-19 coach Bojan Hodak.
The Croat, who was the architect behind Malaysia’s 4-1 win over Indonesia on Monday, believes his side can beat hosts South Korea in their final AFC Under-19 Qualifying Group F match at Paju Stadium today.
Malaysia have earned the respect of Korea following the manner Hodak’s side had tore Indonesia apart, and Chung Jung Yong’s team are unlikely to hold anything back in the match.
Korea and Malaysia have each collected nine points but the former lead the group on goal difference while Indonesia are third with six, followed by Timor Leste and Brunei, who both have yet to collect points.
The champions in each of the 10 groups and the five best runners-up will earn berths for the AFC Under-19 Championship Finals in Indonesia on Oct 18Nov 4 next year.
As the number of teams vary in each group, results against the fourth and fifth ranked teams in each pool are not considered when determining the five best runners-up.
Hodak admitted that it will be tough today as he regards Korea as the best Under-19 team in Asia. Furthermore, Korea have players who are plying their trade in Europe.
Central midfielder Lee Kang In is currently playing for Valencia’s reserve side. It was reported that La Liga giants Real Madrid are keen to secure his services.
Winger Jeong Woo Yeong is a member of Bayern Munich’s Under-19 team while stopper Jeong Woo Yeong plays for Ulsan Hyundai in the K-League.
Striker Oh Se Hun, who has scored a goal so far, is one of many up-and-coming stars of Korean football.
“Korea are tactically and technically better than other teams in Asia, but my boys will do their best to stop them. We need to be very disciplined in all aspects,” said Hodak.
“We cannot make mistakes and we also need to be tight at the back. My boys must play aggressive and also avoid giving room to the Koreans to play their football.”
Hodak disclosed that striker Zafuan Azeman and defender Nabil Hakim Bokhari have picked up injuries.
“The duo are doubtful but I have able replacements. When I picked the team, I made sure I had two quality players in each position,” Hodak added. Ajitpal Singh