Focus on Australia’s holes

Australia, South Korea’s opponent in the upcoming AFC Asian Cup final, is a well-balanced team from top to bottom, but the team does have holes that can be exploited, analysts said Thursday.

Kim Dae-gil, a commentator for the cable channel KBS N, noted that Australia has enjoyed a strong Asian Cup as the host, and remains superior to South Korea in terms of passing accuracy and goal scoring.

“It’s not just Tim Cahill; players like Matthew Leckie, Robbie Kruse and Massimo Luongo are also dangerous,” Kim said. “Mile Jedinak and Trent Sainsbury are also physical players whom the defense should be wary of. South Korea can’t afford to give them too many set-piece opportunities.”

Kim said South Korea should try to break down the Australian defense with quick transition, since the Socceroos’ only glaring weakness may be the space behind the defense.

Han Jun-hee, an analyst for KBS, said the Australians have been applying excellent forechecks throughout the tournament but that may also create room for South Korea to exploit on offense.

“If the South Koreans can withstand pressure, some space should open up in the back of the Australian defense,” Han said. “Their center backs aren’t necessarily fleet-footed. But if South Korea can’t get through the midfield, it will be in for a long night.”

Han pointed to midfielder Ki Sung-yueng, the team captain who’s been rock steady, as the key player who must make smart outlet passes. The analyst also said players without the ball must position themselves well to receive those passes, adding that Son Heung-min, the dynamic winger who scored twice in the quarterfinals, also has an important responsibility.

Han agreed with Kim that Australia can be dangerous on set pieces.

“Japan plays strong possession football, while Iran is on par with European nations in set pieces. Australia is very good in both aspects,” Han said. “South Korea must minimize Australia’s corners and free kicks. And Tim Cahill shouldn’t be the only player to defend.” (Yonhap)