The Korean football team will play a friendly against Spain in Bern, Switzerland, on May 31 in preparation for the next round of Asian qualifiers for the 2004 World Cup in Brazil.

With the match being held in Europe it will give manager Choi Kang-hee a chance to assess some of this Europe-based players. He may also have to deal with a player availability issue as the K-League has eight games scheduled between May 26 and 28.

Sitting stop FIFA's world rankings, Spain is considered one of the most competitive teams in the world. Korea is currently ranked 30th.

The history of matches between the two countries foreshadows the reigning European and World Cup champions to be favorites with two wins and two draws in previous meetings. The 2002 World Cup quarterfinal does not sount as the Taeguk Warriors advanced following a penalty shoot-out.

Spain boasts a host of star players including Andres Iniesta, Carles Puyol, Sergio Ramos, and Xabi Alonso.