(World Cup) Park Ji-sung says S. Korea should watch out for his ex-teammate Chicharito

All News 21:57 June 22, 2018

By Joo Kyung-don

ROSTOV-ON-DON, Russia, June 22 (Yonhap) -- South Korean football icon Park Ji-sung said Friday that the national team players should be aware of his former Manchester United teammate Javier Hernandez when they meet Mexico at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Park, who is in Russia as a match commentator for local broadcaster SBS, said South Koreans need to closely watch Hernandez, who is also known as "Chicharito," when they face Mexico at Rostov Arena in Rostov-on-Don in their Group F contest.

"Chicharito may look like he is not playing intensively, but when the moment comes, he just scores in the box," he said. "Our players should keep a close watch on him for 90 minutes."

After dropping their Group F opener 1-0 to Sweden, South Korea are in need of a win to stay in knockout stage contention. Mexico, on the other hand, are looking to get one step closer to the round of 16, following their historic 1-0 win over Germany.

Park, who was with Manchester United from 2005 to 2012, said he expects Mexico to play more aggressive football than they did against Germany. Juan Carlos Osorio's side played 4-2-3-1 against Germany, with emphasis on quick counterattacks.

"Mexico basically use 3-4-3 and run a diamond-shape midfield," he said. "When the opponents are stronger, their midfielders also engage actively in defense, but for this match, I expect to see them move forward aggressively."

Park, who hung up his boots in 2014, said South Korea need to overcome the pressing game from Mexico to create scoring opportunities.

"Our players need to keep the pace and moved forward quickly from the midfield," he said. "Mexico have versatile players, and they will probably adapt to South Korea's tactical changes. We also need to be prepared for that."

Park, who also had stints with PSV Eindhoven and Queens Park Rangers, said South Korea's attacking ace Son Heung-min can play an important role.

"Considering what Son did in the English Premier League, he has an ability to score against any team," he said. "Although Mexico are the team that beat the defending champions, it's too early for us to give up."

Park admitted that South Korean players are in a difficult situation following a defeat to Sweden, but the players need to focus on the upcoming matches.

"I hope the players can forget the previous match, and concentrate like Mexico did against Germany," he said. "I hope they can display their talents 100 percent and play without regret."