South Korean newspapers applauded on Wednesday their national team's World Cup quarterfinal victory of Italy with such praise as like moving a mountain.
The country was recovering on Wednesday from a wild night of celebrations after the 2-1 extra-time victory brought it to the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time.
"Hiddink troops have surprised the world and created new history," said the Chosun Ilbo newspaper, praising the role of Dutch coach Guus Hiddink whom has now widely described as a national hero. "Hiddink for President," read a giant banner displayed in the spectator stand at Tuesday's match in Taejon.
The victory was sealed with a golden goal by striker Ahn Jung-hwan 4 minutes from the end of extra time.
"Veni, vidi, vici," read another headline from the Chosun Ilbo. "Warriors have finally crossed the Rubicon and entered Rome."
"The players have moved a mountain," the daily added.
South Korea now face Spain in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Kwangju. The city had earlier declared it would name one of its roads after coach Hiddink if the team beat Italy.
"South Koreans have waited 40 years for their chance to emulate the North," said the English-language newspaper Korean Times.
The victory in Taejon recalled South Korean fans of the 1-0 World Cup upset of Italy by their neighbors the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in 1966. South Koreans fans flipped thousands of red and white boards saying "Again 1966". No other Asian side had gone as far until Tuesday.
South Korean striker Ahn Jung-hwan was at last relieved after missing a penalty before scoring the winner in extra time.
"The God of soccer has provided last chance for Ahn Jung-hwan,"said the Chosun Ilbo Daily.
After the decisive goal, an overexcited Ahn lay down on the pitch in tears.
Seol Ki-hyeon had equalized against Italy two minutes from the end of the 90 minutes' regular play.
But Seol took all the plaudits as the Korean media nicknamed the striker "Seolvaldo", combining his name with Brazilian star Rivaldo.
South Korea set up the match against Italy after finishing top of Group D by beating Portugal 1-0 and Poland 2-0 as well as drawing with the U.S.
Editor: Ronnie
Source: Xinhua
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