Beijing Olympic Games

Updated: 2008-08-20 22:53:34

(BEIJING, 20 August) — Spain took control in the second half of its quarterfinal match against the Republic of Korea to secure a 29-24 victory on Wednesday to enter the Men’s Handball semifinals at the Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium.

Spain will play Iceland on Friday.

The ROK has never beaten Spain in eight World Championships and Olympic encounters.

Spain increased the tempo of the game with smooth and accurate passes, playing almost without interruption in attack, making use of their wing players.

Albert Rocas succeeded in breaking through from his right wing almost every time he tried, scoring on six of seven attempts. Left-wing Juan Garcia netted three of seven wing shots. In addition he scored on all three 7m penalty shots rewarded to Spain.

In defense Spain worked closer together in the second half, and the ROK team didn’t have much choice but to jump shoot from the 9m line, attempting as many as 36 long shots in the game. Center-back Jeong Yi-kyeong (KOR) scored five times from 9m, as did left back Paek Won-chul (KOR).

But Spain’s goalkeeper, David Barrufet, made it difficult for the Republic of Korea in the second half, saving an impressive 58 percent of all shots. Spain will now meet Iceland in the semifinals on Friday.