The South Korea coach Huh Jung-moo believes his side will need to be at their best if they are to defeat North Korea in their 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Seoul today. Both sides are battling at the top of Group Two with the North Koreans top with 10 points while South Korea are second with eight, although have played a game less. Huh's side were not in action last weekend and instead warmed up for this clash with a 2-1 friendly win over Iraq although they should really have won by a greater margin but for some poor finishing.
"We played some good stuff and moved the ball around well against Iraq," said Huh. "We also created many chances but the problem was that we just didn't finish those off. "DPR Korea are a well-organised team and we know that we will have to be at our best to get the three points." Huh has a number of concerns ahead of the game with the midfielder Kim Jung-woo suspended and defender Cho Yong-hyung out with an injury.
North Korea coach Kim Jong-hun, meanwhile, is under no illusion as to the importance of the game between the two neighbours They have met on four occasions over the last 14 months with each game ending in a draw. And Kim, who will be without midfielder An Yong-hak for the game through suspension, believes three points are vital. "We know that three points will be precious for us if we are to progress through the qualification group," he said.
"To this end, all the players will give their all until the final whistle. Korea Republic were strong before and are strong now. They have good and experienced players and I think they have prepared well." * With agencies