Having split its matches against Argentina last weekend,
Korea now sits in fourth place in Pool B with 9 points from three wins and five
losses.
But the team's dream of reaching the Final Six in
Belgrade later this month is far from over thanks to the fact Korea only trails
Argentina and France by 3 and 2 points respectively with four matches still to
play.
Korea can conceivably move into second place this weekend
with two wins against France in Cheonan, Korea.
With the exception of Serbia, which received a bye to the
Final Round as host of the tournament, the three other Pool B teams have
similar world rankings and skill levels, setting the stage for some close and
difficult matches during the final two rounds of intercontinental play.
Korea will be happy to be playing on home soil again in
Round 5, but after flying to Argentina last weekend, recovering from fatigue
will be the team's first priority.
Korea can beat France if it becomes more consistent in
service reception and plays to its strengths: namely strong combinations
supported by height and power.
The Koreans won't be at their strongest this weekend,
however, as two or three of their players are sidelined with injuries. But the
team remains confident of beating the French following the excellent
performances of starting setter Kwon Young-Min and right-wing attacker Park
Cheol-Woo against Argentina.