KUALA LUMPUR (12 MAY 2010) – Defending champions China marched into the Thomas Cup semifinals with comparative ease without dropping a set in their 3-0 win over the much touted South Korea in the quarter-finals at the Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

It was a repeat clash between the two teams who had earlier played each other in Group A on Tuesday with the Chinese coming off 4-1 winners.

Today, the Lin Dan powered Chinese once again showed that they are the masters of the game and the team to beat in the 26th edition of the Thomas Cup. China have won the last three editions - in 2004 in Jakarta, 2006 (Tokyo) and 2008 (Jakarta).

Lin Dan, who toiled for his 21-18, 25-23 win over Korean No 1 Park Sung Hwan in the group match, made sure that he did not allow his opponent “a comeback” and walked away with a 21-16, 21-15 win in 54 minutes.

Former world champions Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng proved too strong for the Korean scratch pair of Jung Jae Sung-Shin Baei Cheok with a 21-11, 21-16 win in the first doubles before Chen Jin whipped Shon Wan Ho 21-15, 21-12 for the winning point.

China’s chief coach Li Yongbo was in jovial mood after China’s march into the semis and even cracked a joke at the press conference when he said: “This match was telecast live to China and the people will be wondering if it a repeat of our group match as it was played at the same time and on the same court too.”

Putting that aside, Yongbo said China are ready for any team in the semifinals. China will take on the winners of the Malaysia-Denmark quarter-final match.

“I will be watching this match to plan my match strategies. Both are tough teams to play against,” said Yongbo.

Lin Dan said he is happy with the way he has come through with the matches in the tournament.

“I am playing better and better. My form is okay but I will not underrate any opponent,” said Lin Dan after his win win over Sung Hwan.