By Kim Young-jin
Staff reporter
President Lee Myung-bak congratulated the South Korean football squad Wednesday after it advanced to the second round of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, saying the nation is galvanized behind the team as it bids for the title.
"I rejoice with the people and congratulate (the team) on advancing into the round of 16 for the first time at a World Cup away from home," Lee said in a message to the team.
South Korea drew 2-2 with Nigeria early in the morning (KST), earning a berth in the knockout round for the first time since the 2002 tournament, which was co-hosted by Korea and Japan.
"Seeing the Taeguk Warriors doing their best until the very last moment without losing concentration has inspired great courage and hope to the people," Lee said, using the team’s nickname. “Taeguk” refers to the yin-yang-like symbol at the center of the national flag.
The President said the country will be urging the Warriors on when they line up against Uruguay on Saturday.
"All the South Korean people will be with you to take on the challenge of getting to the round of eight," he said.
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