The Socceroos’ conquerers South Korea are through to the Asian Cup decider after breezing past Iraq 2-0.
The Koreans will face Australia or the UAE after being far too strong and classy for the Iraqis in Sydney. A goal in each half was enough to see out the Arab nation, who appeared to have little left in their tank after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Iran in the quarter-finals.
South Korea dominated the first half at a soaked ANZ Stadium, as many expected. Son Heung-min tested the keeper on 18 minutes, pulling a great save out of Jalal Hassan Hachim. It was a warning sign.
A minute later Korea had taken the lead through a brilliant header from Lee Jeong-hyeop. From a free-kick the forward rose with a towering header that was Tim Cahill-esque in its delivery.
It took Iraq 24 minutes to register their first shot on a goal – a header from their captain Younus Mahmood. Korea Republic kept dominating possession and chances, but as the half grew Iraq started to finally grab a foothold in the match.
At the break the stats showed the extent of the Korean dominance – 65.8 per cent possession, 138 more passes and Iraq with six more fouls conceded.
Five minutes into the second half and South Korea sealed the match. It was a goal of pure skill.
A cross came and the ball was chested down at the top of the box to Kim Young-gwon who flew a leg at the ball. The sweetest of volleys sailed into the back of the net. Two-nil, and job done.
Goalkeeper Hachim made a good save to keep the Koreans at bay and Iraq clicked into gear. They created several opportunities, racking up corners and building pressure, but just couldn’t pull a goal back.
The Iraqi fans keept chanting, kept drumming, supporters of both countries adding to a fantastic atmosphere, but it wasn’t their night. Marwan Hussein had a legimitate penalty shout ignored with nine minutes left, and soon after an Iraqi fan then ran on to the pitch.
South Korea is deservedly through to the final of the tournament while Iraq were a touch lucky to get this far, considering the circumstances of their Ben Williams-inspired victory in Canberra. If the Socceroos can get past the UAE, a rematch against South Korea awaits. The Taeguk Warriors edged Australia in Brisbane with a smart game plan.
With the Socceroo attack misfiring, they took advantage of a sole defensive lapse and were too disciplined and structured to let the home team back into the contest.
South Korea are a well-drilled side with several talented players. Keeper Kim Jin-hyeon is handy, while right fullback Cha Duri has a great engine. Kim Young-gwon is very skilful and former Queensland schoolboy Son is a star. They also have a large fan-base backing them passionately.
Confident, with some momentum after five straight victories and not conceding a solitary goal, South Korea will take some beating in the Asian Cup final on Saturday.
Follow John Davidson on Twitter @johnnyddavidson
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