Choi happy to overcome Kuwait hurdle

South Korea coach Choi Kang-Hee admitted his side’s tense 2-0 win over Kuwait on Wednesday did not go to plan.

Choi’s men needed a result to ensure their place in the fourth and final round of 2014 World Cup qualifying through Asia, but needed second-half goals from Lee Dong-Gook and Lee Keun-Ho to make sure.

“The game didn’t go as well as we expected but our players fought well and we achieved our goal so now we have to prepare well for the final qualifications,” Choi told OSEN.

“Kuwait showed great mental strength in the beginning stages of the match but it couldn’t last for the whole match and we got chances in the second half. Eventually we scored goals and it helped us win the game.”

Choi seemed to be impressed with the dynamic performances of his attacking duo, who he believes combined well.

“Lee Dong-Gook and Park Chu-Young both can play as a second striker, so I asked them to change positions frequently. Both of the players are very talented so if they can get used to each other, they will form a very strong partnership,” he said.

When asked of South Korea’s large pool of talented youth players Choi was very open about future selections.

“Now we are in the next stage I think anybody has a chance to become a full international if they have the right quality. So the door is open for everyone,” he said.

“We have three matches in June and after the London Olympics we can pick the younger lads. So we will prepare a lot until then.”