The Central Asians were crushed 6-0 in Tuesday's semi-final encounter with Australia to emphatically end their hopes of a first-ever appearance in the final of the continental competition.

Korea, meanwhile, exited on penalties to arch-rivals Japan but there is still plenty at stake in tomorrow's contest with the winner guaranteed a place at the 2015 edition in Australia.

"Uzbekistan need to restore their reputation following the semi-finals so they will prepare well to recover," said Cho.

"So we should approach this match like it is the first match of the Asian Cup even though we are very tired. I believe the players can overcome these barriers with their strong mentality."

After their two previous games went to extra time, Cho admitted fatigue was a problem for his squad with Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung a particular worry.

"I'm a bit concerned over Park Ji-sung's fitness for the game which may cause injury. We are focusing on injury prevention for the game against Uzbekistan," he added.

"We've had two extra time matches but even though our players are very tired, we will try to finish this tournament with the possible strongest line-up to win.

"I should focus on the game against Uzbekistan. I'm concerned that some players are not fully recovered from the two games so I have to wait to make a decision on my line-up."

Uzbekistan will be without the suspended Ulugbek Bakaev after the striker was sent-off against Australia, but coach Vadim Abramov is confident his men will not bear the mental scars of that demoralising defeat.

"I think not, two days of rest has improved their minds," he said.

"Everybody knows now what they are doing. I hope for a good game against South Korea, perhaps our best game of the tournament and maybe that will help us forget about the last result.

"After the last game against Australia I was not happy but we must play another game against Korea Republic.

"I think it is very important and that it will be better if we win and forget the terrible result against Australia. It would be very good if we qualified for the next Asian Cup because we can use the time to prepare well."