Korea Republic coach Lee Kwang-jong looks set to make some changes from the side that defeated India 5-2.TASHKENT – Despite his team’s storming win over India in their AFC U-16 Championship opener, Korea Republic coach Lee Kwang-jong insists that changes could be made for Monday’s Group B meeting with Indonesia.
Winners of the event in 2002, the Koreans made their intentions clear with an emphatic 5-2 opening day win, while Indonesia slumped to a 2-1 defeat to Syria.
But as he looks to fine tune his squad with a place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup available, Lee could look to his bench to plot Indonesia’s downfall and put Korea in a strong position to secure a quarter-final berth.
“There are a few things I am considering, but there will be some changes in our formation and system. We will also look at the weak factors defensively as we need to sharpen things up,” said Lee.
“We have 23 players, I am really happy with our bench as there is depth and I am not concerned with the quality.
“Our objective is to not only qualify for the world championship, but make an impact. We want to win this competition and in order to do that we have put an importance on winning and topping the group.”
Despite the defeat Indonesia coach Mundari Karya was pleased with his team’s display in their defeat by Syria, but is well aware of the task they face against the skilful and well drilled Koreans.
“Korea are one of the biggest sides in Asia, they reach finals a lot. But we will be prepared,” he said.
“Maybe there will be some changes, but we will stick to our plans, defend strong and counter-attack. It will be a very tough and difficult game.”
Following their defeat by Korea, India technical director Colm Toal was quick to point out his side are still in the hunt for a place in the quarter-finals and is hoping to see a positive response against Syria.
“Before the Korea game they were the favourites and I am sure no one is surprised by the result. We have no excuses, they were much better,” said Toal.
“We must put the last game behind us, learn from it, and, hopefully show some character and determination to bounce back.”
Syria will look to build on their opening day success after coming through their tricky opener.
“Our game against India is a step towards the quarter-finals which is our goal,” said coach Kifork Mardakyan. “We will play to win.”
Source:The AFC.com
