S Korea set up semi-final with Japan

Yoon sweeps his side to a 1-0 win over Iran in the Asian Cup.

DOHA: South Korean substitute Yoon Bit Ga-Ram grabbed a sensational 105th-minute extra-time goal to see off a stubborn Iran 1-0 and set up a semi-final clash with arch-rivals Japan. South Korea finally emerged victorious in what was the fifth quarter-final meeting between the two regional giants in as many Asian Cups – putting them 3-2 up in their mini-series and breaking Iran hearts just as penalties seemed inevitable.

Yoon, 20, struck in injury time, weaving his way across the face of the box then hitting a curler past the keeper and into the bottom corner. “The players were willing to sacrifice themselves for the team and we showed good organisation,” said Korean coach Cho Kwang-Rae, while adding that his side were ready to take on Japan. “The most important thing the players learnt was to enjoy controlling the game. Japan have been getting better and better in every aspect. But I have never feared Japan, even as a player, and I don’t fear them now.”

Iran coach Afshin Ghotbi admitted it was hugely disappointing for the three-time champions, who have not won the Asian Cup since 1976. “In the first-half we didn’t play like we can, that maybe had to do with the Koreans’ quality and our own tension,” said Ghotbi, who used to be South Korea’s assistant coach. “But as the game wore on we got better and unfortunately we lost a goal at the worst moment, but it was a fantastic finish.”

South Korea enjoyed the better of a tight contest, having their first chance after a minute, but Manchester United star Park Ji-Sung, winning his 99th cap, totally missed his volley as his side made the far more confident start. Iran were physical, conceding a series of free-kicks as they attempted to nullify the likes of Park and impressive attacking midfielder Koo Ja-Cheol, but to no avail.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 24^th, 2011.