2 fundamental mistakes/lack of communication amongst the Korean defense gave 2 goals to Turkey, plus a great performance by Recber... gave the Turks the victory.
Yes, there were some referee issues, (of which I am tired of talking about, so I won't).
I would say it was an exciting game, particularly seeing the Koreans in pursuit of the tie, which never came, yet tried and tried, they simply could not convert the many opportunities they created. This pursuit of the goal is what I like to see in football, relentless, clean play with no catenaccio, no dives and... of course --minus the referee bs.--
Turkey managed the game well and took advantage of the gifts offered. I bet they are celebrating in Ankara with this third place in their second WC appearance. Switzerland in 54 being the first one where they did not make it past the initial phase.
Some interesting statistics...
The only team Turkey lost to was Brazil (twice). They tied the Ticos (CR), both in their game and points; they went through due to their better goal difference.
Turkey now holds the record for the fastest goal of all world cups (11 seconds). Previous Fastest goal in a World Cup match was scored by Czechoslovakia's Vaclav Masek after only 16 seconds against Mexico in 1962 (Chile). Mexico went on to beat the Czechs 3 x 1. Czechoslovakia also met Brazil twice in 62, (a tie in their group 0 x 0), then in the final, losing to Brazil 3 x 1 (and having scored first too).
Worth mentioning: The final goodbye by both teams and the reaction by the Korean Fans... both, acts of great sportsmanship. |
