http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/newsid=1222292/indexe.html#Park+Ji+Sung+Interviw
Park Ji-Sung spoke out to our reporters today when asked about the problems that FIFA's location in South Africa might pose. With the teams first match in less than two weeks away, it's no surprise that the captain of the Warriors had a positive, game ready outlook. He confidently responded to our reporter's questions.
Q) Do you think South Korea's distant eight thousand mile location from Seoul might affect your playing?
"I never once considered South Africa was any sort of barrier that would personally hinder me and my team. Our team is as strong as any other team in the World Cup finals, because each player has their own confidence and fighting spirit. Just as we are taking that several hour flight, other teams will have to do the same. But in the end, will know that South Korea is rooting for our backs, no matter how far away."
Q) Where will your team be staying?
"Our base camp will be in the Hunters Rest near Rustenburg. It's only about an hour's drive from Johannesburg where our first match will be held, which is June 12th for any of you Soccer fans (chuckle). Huh Jung-Moo decided on the location because of its pretty large health center. It's seclusion will also help the team get some peaceful rest."
Q) Are you worried about the more geographic and cultural boundaries that South Africa presents?
"We've planned to compensate for the more obvious problems such as language differences- we have at translator. South Africa has completely different customs, the understanding of which is something that takes years. I'm more worried about the physical issues like, we practice at basically sea level, but Johannesburg is thousands of feet higher. A soccer ball will actually travel faster because of the thinner air in that situation, it's also going to be a strain on our lungs. But, sometimes, I guess you can't prepare for everything.
I feel that FIFA doesn't need to worry too much on the location and how teams will get there, but possibly how they will get large crowds at the games. FIFA is such a major popular culture now that people will find a way to get there with ease.
ReplyDeleteI also agree and feel South Korea won't be too heavily affected by playing in South Africa. Millions of fans or not, they will probably be fine.
I think the lower population will probably be a new experience for South Korea and I think it should be good for them for rest, but they won't have as much fans to pump them possibly...
I feel South Africa's culture will be a good influence for South Korea. Hopefully they will get a fair amount of practice to adapt to the new weather and height conditions.
Location-wise i think that the world cup will always fare well due to the huge following all around the world and the passion that so many people have for the sport. The South Korean team itself should not and will not be affected by the area at all. With or without fans they will always do well and the following in Korea itself boils down to only the most hardcore fans. In South Africa they won't have to deal with media or fanbase as much as the more high profile teams and only high profile players will be pursued by fanatics. South Africa will be good for the team and test their versatility with the change in environment and weather.
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