Team Korea’s Weakest Link: Midfield

Experts point out that Team Korea must utilize its midfield trio, Park Ji-sung, Lee Eul-ryong, and Kim Nam-il, in order to have a chance at scoring a win against Togo in the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany.

After beating Korea at the evaluation match held on June 4, Ghana coach Ratomir Dujkovic said he saw nothing of Korea’s trademark pressure. “I’ve known Korea to be an untiring foe that puts tremendous pressure on its opponents. I was unable to see that side of Korea today.”

Korea fielded Park Ji-sung, Lee Eul-ryong, and Lee Ho in the midfield triangle with Kim Nam-il backing them. But these midfielders were not effective against Ghana’s crafty midfielders such as Michael Essien, and too many times they allowed through-passes and side penetration. KBS commentator Lee Yong-su and other experts agree that Korea’s faltering defenses and lameness on offenses were brought about by the weakness in its midfield.

The problem could be relativity. With star players like Essien, Ghana’s midfield is capable of unleashing much pressure on the opposing side. However, Ghana’s play style is similar to Togo. There is an answer to be found at the end of Sunday’s match, and the answer is a stronger midfield.

Park Ji-sung must continue to stir up the middle ground. Lee Eul-ryong needs to use his roughness in cutting off the opponents and passing. Finally, Kim Nam-il must shackle the opposing attacks. If these things are done right, Korea’s offense and defense should be revitalized.

Obviously, midfield alone cannot dictate the outcome of the game. Both offense and defense must move about in organic unity. But the midfield trio of Park, Lee, and Kim must gain stability in order for attackers Ahn Jung-hwan and Lee Chun-su to be effective. It will also have a positive effect on Lee Young-pyo and Kim Jin-kyu’s defense line.

Jong-Koo Yang yjongk@donga.com