Germany's quarter-final meet with DPR Korea is likely to produce one of the women's World Cup's most breathtaking game as both teams have the world class quality and the desire for attacking.
Germany are not unstoppable, in spite of their group stage luster. The Germans were held to a 0-0 draw by European new force England following their 11-0 demolition over Argentina, and then met strong resistance from a technical Japan side, but managed to beat the Nadeshikos 2-0.
In the game with England, although the Germans took some advantage in possession and had more shots, but they created few clear chances before a well-organized and physical defence. Things are likely to repeat in the DPR Korea clash.
The Koreans, lost to Sweden 2-1 but still qualified from the "Group of Death", have proved their level in the first phase, especially in the 2-2 tie with the United States.
Their high-intensity style with a lot of long-range shots around the area and tireless efforts of making crosses from both flanks, adding the fierce tackles, pressured their opponents for most part of the game. The Koreans are fair on one-one occasions with the Americans, and showed excellent short passing skills in the midfield.
In the defeat to the Swedes, DPR Korea also created a lot of chances, but their ace strikers seemed to be not in good form. Captain Ri Kum Suk was not so sharp and resolved as she used to be, and only had one goal in three games. But their NO. 9 Ri Un Suk's form is amazing, leading the Korean's forward line with fine performance.
"The quarter-finals will be tough, and we have to improve ourselves when facing tougher teams," said Germany coach Silvia Neid.
Both sides are aiming at the tournament title, but the defending champions Germany are undoubtedly much more experienced in the knockout matches.
With top striker Birgit Prinz and veteran playmaker Renate Lingor, adding young blood Kerstin Garefrekes and Melanie Behringer's fast side offence, the Germans will possibly take some advantage in an even game.
"Offence is the best defence," Korean boss Kim Kwang Min told reporters his philosophy after the loss to Sweden, and the confident man is likely to continue his belief.
Germany and DPR Korea have not met before in the Women's World Cup.
Source: Xinhua
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