... and Korean Krazy! France 1, Korea 1

... of course, however, the real focus of the weekend in Leipzig was the match it was hosting and that we were going to - France vs Korea. Leipzig has NEVER seen so many Koreans in its life, I'm sure ...

... first there were just a few nervous Koreans awaiting the game ...



... then they came in packs ...



... at the game there were stands of them, shouting and screaming non-stop (Even when Korea was scored against) ...



... and even though they only filled up 20% of the stadium, they made more noise than everyone put together; an astonishing performance by the fans of non-stop, 8,000 fans in unison chanting a range of impressive songs (Well over 10 distinct chants!) including ...

• Go West (Korean version - includes a capalla, then drum bits / techno version)
• Ode to Joy / Beethoven's 9th
• One which I presume was created specially for the game, to the tune of the French national anthem
• And of course, that perennial favourite, "Hail Kor-ea!"

... complete with dance moves, drums and signage. They made me proud to be a Korean (Even though I'm actually not ... I think).

The game itself was electric. Leipzig's stadium was built especially for the World Cup, and it is gorgeous:



We had some great seats at around the 20 metre mark, right next to the Korean crowd. France dominated much of the game, leading 1-0 for most of it and missing many more chances - but Korea came back - with a vengeance, with 2002 hero Park scoring; holding on for a thrilling 1-1 draw!