Korea wave red flag at Spanish matadors

All-Conquering South Korea will cross swords with a Spanish side equally intent on making history on Saturday in a World Cup quarter-final that will be a test of nerves for all concerned. European favourites Portugal and Italy have already fallen victim to the strength, stamina and skill of a South Korean side living the sort of World Cup adventure that before the tournament would have seemed a wild fantasy.

The co-hosts had not won a World Cup match in five previous appearances. Yet three wins and one draw later they find themselves two matches away from the final.

For Spain, it will be their fourth opportunity to win a quarter-final, after defeats to Italy in 1934 and 1994 and to Belgium in 1986. However Spain’s leading striker Raul is extremely doubtful with a groin injury.

(Reuters)