Koreans can qualify, insists former coach

Former national coach Kim Ho believes South Korea can qualify from Group D if they make the most of home advantage.

Ho, one of the country’s most respected coaches, was in charge at the World Cup finals in the United States in 1994.

There his side held Spain and Bolivia to draws before an unlucky 3-2 defeat to Germany sealed their fate at the group stage.

Speaking to the Korean Times, Ho feels Guus Hiddink’s squad can progress, despite the poor showing in France 98.

He said: ‘‘We have some advantages. We are on home soil which brings a combination of positive things.’’

One of those advantages was being seeded in the draw.

The joint hosts face the USA, Poland and Portugal in Group D.

Ho added: ‘‘Compared to the past it is a relatively good draw. We should have a competitive edge.

‘‘If we beat Poland in the first match, it would set us up to go on to round two.’’