By Yoon Chul
Staff reporter
Greece and Nigeria, two of the teams in Group B with South Korea in the upcoming World Cup only managed draws in friendlies against North Korea and Saudi Arabia.
South Korean team boss Huh Jung-moo watched the Greece game but ruled out any complacency despite poor showings from his group rivals.
Before starting their matches, Greece and Nigeria were both considered too strong for their opponents but instead they revealed their weakness.
In Greece's 2-2 draw they proved their height and power are serious offensive threats as both their goals came from free kicks. As North Korea's physical attributes are similar to those of South Korea, Huh's side should recognize the danger from Greece's set-pieces.
It would be harsh to say the European team's defense was weak as North Korea's goals came from Jung Tae-se's individual skill.
However, the defenders were slow and allowed their opponents too much space at the back. In addition they didn't appear well organized.
The speedy South Korean midfield of Park Ji-sung of Manchester United, Lee Chung-yong of Bolton Wanderers and Ki Sung-yueng of Celtic FC will look to create goal-scoring chances through a quick passing game.
Nigeria also failed to impress in a scoreless game. Though several key players were kept out of the Saudi Arabia match due to injury, their performance was mediocre.
The Africans allowed the opposition chances to take the lead and their movement in attack made little impact.
"We can't judge Greece after only watching this game," Huh said. "Their fitness might be lacking and they will get better and better," added Huh.
In order to advance to round of 16, it is felt South Korea must be victorious against Greece in the first of three preliminary matches. And the Asians will also need at least a draw against Nigeria because South Korea sees the second match against Argentina will be really tough to earn even a point.
Greece and Nigeria will be stronger in the World Cup than in the warm-up matches but their recent performances should be enough to give confidence to the South Korean players.