Short back-up won’t bother Seongnam Ilhwa

A back-up in the space of a few days will not bother Korea outfit Seongnam Ilhwa as they prepare for tonight’s Asian Champions League Round of 16 clash with Gamba Osaka.

Seongnam boss Shin Tae-Yong says his players will be at peak fitness for the match at the Tancheon Sports Complex even though they played in the domestic league during the week, defeating Chunnam Dragons 4-0.

“Of course there will be a concern about fitness. However, I believe we are fit enough to play a match in the space of three or four days. I have faith in my players. This is a must-win game,” he said.

“I watched the Suwon against Gamba game. Gamba are getting stronger. They are a well-organised team. If we take them lightly, we will be punished by their quality.”

Shin added that there was plenty at stake for the game, which was now a matter of national pride.

“There is only a very fine line between the K-League and J.League,” he added.

“Sport matches between Korea and Japan have been always competitive. This is a matter of pride. We must win.”