“When the Opportunity Comes, It Will Be a Goal“

"It’s coming along as I wanted."

Guus Hiddink, the head coach of the Korean national soccer team, seems favorable about striker Lee Dong-Kuk, who is currently recovering from injury, as he hinted that Lee may play in the CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinals with Costa Rica on 31st (Korean time), as the starting striker.

Hiddink gave exceptional complements on Lee, who was replaed in the second half during the match with Mexico, after holding a training session in Pomona, California, on the 29th. Hiddink said, "He used to stand around in the games, but he showed some active moves during yesterday’s match like I wanted. Although he didn’t score a goal in the Mexico match, he broke through the defense once and made a good opportunity."

After fighting a close game that took penalty shots to conclude the game on the previous day, most of the Korean players only had light warm-ups, except strikers Ahn Hyo-Youn, Choi Tae-Wook, Kim Do-Hoon, and Lee, who sweated over shooting practice.

Regarding technical strategies in the match with Costa Rica, Hiddink said that "There will be no change in the 3-4-1-2 formation, but the final decision will be made after observing a few injured players." About Costa Rica, Korea’s semifinals competitor, he also said, "Although I have no previous experience with the team, I know that they are accomplished in technique and balance."

The coach regarded the U.S. team in a rather indifferent manner about possible competition in the finals by saying, "We may actually meet them 4 times in one year, but it doesn’t bother me."