Hockey World Cup 2023: Spirited Korea hope to upset formidable Dutch

After India bowed out of the quarterfinals by suffering a narrow defeat from New Zealand in the crossover, Korea are the only Asian team left for the knock-out round of the ongoing FIH Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup 2023.

Korea are currently the crowd-favourite in the marquee event after India’s exit. With the crowd cheering for them, the minnows will target the biggest upset in the big event when they take on the last edition's finalist formidable Netherlands in a quarterfinal match at the Kalinga Stadium on Wednesday evening.

In a high-voltage clash, Korea scripted a stunning win over Argentina via shoot-out on Monday. Korea are a blend of youth and experience. They will be a tricky team for the Oranjes to beat. The Dutch are in red hot form in the tournament. But they can’t take Netherlands lightly in the tournament. Both the teams have reached the quarterfinal stage in contrasting fashion. Korea captain Skipper Lee Nam Yongn will make his 200th international appearance and his squad will look to own a slice of history.

In another quarterfinal, England will take on Germany. There is very little to differentiate between both the teams. While the Germans are ranked fourth in world ranking, England are a notch below them.

Both the teams have some world-class players and audience at Kalinga stadium will witness another high-voltage clash this evening.