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South Korea aims for win against South Africa in must-win World Cup qualifier

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • South Korea faces South Africa in a must-win World Cup qualifier on June 25, needing at least a draw to advance to the Round of 32.
  • Coach Hong Myung-bo hinted at tactical changes, potentially shifting Son Heung-min to left wing and using a different striker.
  • The team must overcome challenging heat and a fast South African attack, with strong support expected from Korean fans in Mexico.

South Korea's national football team is preparing for a crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa on June 25, where a draw would secure their advancement to the Round of 32. However, coach Hong Myung-bo has emphasized the team's determination to win, stating that playing for a draw could lead to difficulties.

"We will not give up and will prepare to win," Hong stated at a press conference. A victory would mark South Korea's first time achieving two wins in the group stage of a World Cup since 2002, and their first such achievement in an away tournament. The match is expected to be a tense tactical battle, with South Africa likely to attack aggressively from the start. Hong hinted at potential lineup changes, possibly moving star player Son Heung-min from a central striker role to the left wing. This could see Oh Hyun-gyu or Cho Gue-sung take the lead striker position, while Lee Jae-sung might move to midfield.

We will not give up and will prepare to win.

— Hong Myung-boSouth Korea coach Hong Myung-bo's determination ahead of the crucial match against South Africa.

The defense, led by Kim Min-jae, is preparing to counter South Africa's speed and skillful individual play. "We've discussed among ourselves how to prepare for their speed," Kim said. "If we play like we did in the first two games, we can definitely beat South Africa." The team also faces the challenge of extreme heat, with temperatures expected to exceed 30 degrees Celsius even in the evening. Coach Hong acknowledged the difficulty of adapting but expressed confidence in the team's preparation for the high altitude and heat.

An estimated 2,000 Korean fans, including the "Red Devils" supporters and local residents, are expected to cheer for the team. Monterey, known as "Little Korea" in Mexico, has a significant Korean community and numerous Korean businesses, suggesting strong local support. The team hopes this backing will help them secure a vital win.

We've discussed among ourselves how to prepare for their speed. If we play like we did in the first two games, we can definitely beat South Africa.

— Kim Min-jaeSouth Korea defender Kim Min-jae expressing confidence in the team's ability to counter South Africa's strengths.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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