TAEJON, South Korea -- A sudden-death goal by Ahn Jung Hwan propelled South Korea into the quarterfinals of the World Cup here Tuesday night, a well-earned 2-1 victory over Italy setting off incredible scenes of celebration.
In front of 38,588 fans here -- and millions more across the country -- South Korea left it late to find an equalizer in regulation time, but the ultimate victory was greeted by utter adulation in and around the stadium. Men, women and children cried openly as their heroes did a lap of honor.
South Korean coach Guus Hiddink said: "I'm very, very happy, I'm very satisfied. (Italy) are one of the superpowers of football. I think this is unique what the Korean players have done so far."