S.Korea’s coach Kwang-Rae sacked after defeat

South Korea coach Cho Kwang-Rae has been sacked after a shock defeat to Lebanon left the 2002 semi-finalists at risk of crashing out of World Cup qualifying, officials said on Thursday. Cho said he was “flabbergasted” at the move, which comes with his team still top of Group B on goal difference and needing only to avoid defeat in their last game to be sure of reaching the final round. The head of the Korean Football Association (KFA) technical committee, Hwangbo Kwan, said Cho’s dismissal came after broadcasters and sponsors voiced concerns about the side’s performances.KFA chief Cho Chung-Yun said Cho, who had faced widespread calls for his resignation, was not the man to steer South Korea to the 2104 tournament in Brazil.“We’ve come to the conclusion that it would be difficult for South Korea to reach the World Cup finals with the current coach. We’ve decided to fire him,” KFA president Cho said.“As to his replacement, we’ll pick up whoever is experienced enough and capable of overcoming this crisis.”