By Honorary Reporter Eftychia Dovletoglou from Greece 
Photos = Screen shots from broadcast 

On Nov. 24 at 3 p.m. in Greece, my family and I prepared to watch the game between Korea and Uruguay in the World Cup soccer finals in Qatar. We planned to eat spicy ramyeon (instant noodles) and drink soju (traditional liquor) for lunch during the game since Greeks usually eat the midday meal between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., but had eaten everything when the game started.

When Korea's national anthem played, I saw certain Koreans in the stadium shedding tears, just like when I hear my country's national anthem.

Korea showed passion and determination, and this offset bad passes mainly due to Uruguay's aggressiveness and speed. I saw inspiring play by Hwang In-beom and Hwang Ui-jo, who are both on the pro Greek team Olympiakos, but felt that after Cho Gue-sung came on as a substitute, the game grew quicker. I was a bit worried about Uruguay's counterattacks but the goalkeeper did a good job with help from his defenders.

The game ended in a scoreless draw and I wish Korea scored a goal. But the Taegeuk Warriors did seem to be the better team with drive and discipline. I wanted more but I think the tie was well deserved.

Korea fans at the stadium stole the show by wearing costumes like those of Joseon Dynasty scholars or kings and modern accessories. The Red Devils cheering squad was enthusiastic, and the commentator in the game's Greek-language broadcast kept talking about how beautiful the Korean fan section was. I liked seeing fans of both teams sitting together and showing that sports are a celebration and unite people.

The next match will be Korea vs. Ghana on Monday, on November 28, 10PM (KST), followed by Korea Republic vs. Portugal on December 2.

kalhong617@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.