South African Media: 'Son Heung-min Must Have an Ordinary Day' for Victory

South Africa is intensely focused on their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Korea, where a draw would be sufficient for them to progress to the next stage. Currently sitting at the bottom of Group A with one win and one loss, South Africa views this match as a must-win scenario.

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South Africa must show stable defense like in the previous two matches. They should not easily concede opportunities. Above all, Son Heung-min must have an ordinary day.

However, the primary concern for South Africa appears to be the formidable presence of South Korean captain Son Heung-min. South African media outlet IOL has voiced significant apprehension, describing Son as "one of the world's best players" and stressing that South Korea's opponents "should not easily concede opportunities." The publication explicitly stated that for South Africa to have a chance, Son must "have an ordinary day."

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He is still greatly loved by Tottenham fans for his diligence, bright smile, and excellent finishing ability.

John Goliath, a journalist and self-proclaimed longtime fan of Tottenham Hotspur, where Son previously played, praised the player's work ethic, demeanor, and finishing ability. While acknowledging that Son might not be at his absolute peak, Goliath still regards him as one of the world's top strikers, capable of scoring from any angle against any goalkeeper with either foot. He also referenced a mistake Son made against Manchester City in the 2023-2024 Premier League season but expressed confidence that such an error would not be repeated against South Africa.

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Although it is evaluated that he has slightly declined from his prime, he is still one of the forwards with the world's best goal-scoring ability.

To overcome South Korea, South African media has urged the team to replicate the fast and accurate passing play shown in the second half against the Czech Republic. They stressed the importance of clinical finishing from the forwards and a solid defensive performance from the outset, emphasizing that conceding early goals must be avoided. The pressure is on South Africa to deliver a decisive performance against a team they must defeat to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

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He is a player who can break down the goalkeeper from any angle in a one-on-one situation, whether it's his left foot or right foot.