South Africa's 'shock defeat' leaves Hong Myung-bo saying 'everything is the coach's responsibility'

South Korean national football team coach Hong Myung-bo shouldered full responsibility for the team's disappointing 0-1 defeat against South Africa in their final World Cup group stage match. The loss, which occurred on Thursday (Korea time) at Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico, has left Korea in third place in Group A, with their advancement to the round of 32 uncertain.

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It was the worst match of the three in the World Cup. Everything is the coach's responsibility.

"It was the worst match of the three in the World Cup. Everything is the coach's responsibility," Hong stated to reporters after the game. He admitted to making poor judgments and decisions that led to the unfavorable result. The team had aimed to secure a draw to advance directly but instead faces the possibility of qualifying through one of the eight spots reserved for third-place teams.

Hong expressed regret over the team's performance, particularly after conceding the goal. "After conceding, the players clearly became a bit rushed," he observed. He noted that the team lost possession in the central midfield frequently, which contrasted with their previous matches. This loss of control led to a visible decline in player confidence.

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After conceding, the players clearly became a bit rushed.

The coach also addressed the decision to keep captain Son Heung-min on the bench for the first half, explaining it was a tactical choice. "I judged it would be better to bring Son Heung-min in when the opponent's energy waned and more space opened up after halftime," Hong said. However, Son's introduction as a second-half substitute could not alter the game's outcome, as Korea's passes were often intercepted and their crosses failed to break through South Africa's defense.

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I judged it would be better to bring Son Heung-min in when the opponent's energy waned and more space opened up after halftime.