Irish fans quietly confident of a win in Korea

Ireland supporters arriving in South Korea today said Spain might be favourites to win but Ireland would play with a lot of heart…

Ireland supporters arriving in South Korea today said Spain might be favourites to win but Ireland would play with a lot of heart in their World Cup second round match tomorrow.

Mr Aidan Egan from Dublin who arrived in Seoul today said he had not slept for 30 hours but he was pleased to be at the tournament to watch Ireland play. "We are reasonably confident of a good result tomorrow. We did not come all this way for a loss, it's a long way from home.

"Spain are a better footballing team but Ireland will put in a very determined performance, if they have a bit of luck they might just win it. Spain are favourites but I would say Ireland would have a reasonable chance."

Other fans watching the England versus Denmark match on large TV screens agreed that Ireland would be putting in a strong performance.

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Mr Liam O'Leary from Bunclody, Co Wexford who had travelled to the game with his daughter Mairead says: "We will go down fighting and if we win we're all going to have to make a big decision on Monday. I would not say anyone is really confident but we can hope."

Mr Kevin O'Malley from Killarney, Co Kerry, who has been following the team throughout the tournament, said: "Its 50/50 but we have a good chance. All anyone knows is that they will try their hardest."

Mr Michael Thompson from Ballyhaunis, County Mayo, who also arrived in South Korea today, said that like many other fans he felt he had to come.

"We decided two days ago to come out. Its like one big party atmosphere. I'm a bit nervous about tomorrow, with anticipation more than anything. We're hoping we will do ourselves proud after getting so far, I think it will be very close, Spain are a fantastic side."

Ireland will face Spain at the Suwon Stadium tomorrow.

PA