Hong Myung-bo's team wins first high-altitude test 5-0; Son Heung-min's brace boosts confidence

South Korea's national football team began their high-altitude training camp with a resounding 5-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago in a friendly match. The win, achieved in Provo, Utah, serves as a crucial confidence booster as the team prepares for the demanding conditions of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

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Son Heung-min, who started as the main striker, came down to the central midfield area to coordinate the attack and find a breakthrough when the flow of the game wasn't opening up early on.

Captain Son Heung-min was the standout performer, scoring two goals and ending a recent goal drought that had caused concern. His clinical finishes, including a penalty kick, marked a significant return to form. Son's brace brought his international tally to 55 and 56 goals, bringing him closer to Cha Bum-kun's national record of 58 goals. His resurgence is vital for the team's prospects in the upcoming tournament.

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The first goal also came from Son Heung-min's foot. In the 40th minute of the first half, Kim Jin-gyu provided a sharp lob pass to Kim Moon-hwan, who had penetrated the right flank, creating an opportunity. Kim Moon-hwan accurately delivered a ground cross to Son Heung-min, who was rushing into the penalty area, and Son calmly slotted it in for the long-awaited goal.

Other players also contributed to the dominant scoreline. Cho Gue-sung netted two goals after coming on as a substitute in the second half, while Hwang Hee-chan converted a penalty. The team's attacking prowess was evident throughout the match, showcasing their readiness for tougher challenges ahead.

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With the flow established, Son Heung-min scored a penalty kick earned by Bae Jun-ho two minutes later, recording his second goal of the match.

The team's strategic choice to train at high altitude in Salt Lake City, which mimics the conditions in Guadalajara, Mexico, where their World Cup group matches will be held, is a key part of their preparation. They will play another friendly against El Salvador on June 4 before heading to Guadalajara. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the team is physically and mentally prepared for the World Cup.

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Son Heung-min's multi-goal performance today also served as a 'resurrection goal' that dispelled recent concerns. Son, a key player for the national team, had not scored in 14 regular season matches in Major League Soccer this season, and his goal drought in the national team continued since the Bolivia match last November.