Uphill task for India

Even against Pakistan, to whom they lost by a solitary goal, the Koreans came close to scoring at least three times in the first 20 minutes, and were thwarted only by the brilliant display of Pakistani goalkeeper Ahmed Alam.

Indian coach Vasudevan Baskaran is aware of the rival8217;s strengths and is confident his defence will be able to contain the speedy Korean forwards, particularly Woon Kon Yeo, the second-highest scorer in the tournament so far with six goals to his name.

8220;We will have to contain them,8221; said Baskaran. 8220;We have to break themin the mid-field so that they are not starting moves that end up in our half,8221; he said today.

The Indians are studying videos of Korea8217;s match yesterday in preparation for the semi-final clash.

8220;We are confident we will reach the final8230;. The Koreans have improved over the years and we can8217;t take them easy, but the boys are fit and willing to go all out in the semi-final.8221; Baskaran said.