The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) shed light on the Korean national soccer team’s first victory in the third qualifying round, saying, “Korea, which had been suffering from frustration, has made a positive start.”
South Korea, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, beat Oman 3-1 in the second Group B match of the 2026 North-China World Cup Asian qualifying round at Muscat Sultan Qaboos Stadium in Oman on the 10th (Korea time).
South Korea, which drew 0-0 in the first match against Palestine on the 5th, scored one win and one draw (four points), ranking second among six teams in Group B.
South Korea, which missed the result in a chaotic situation, such as being booed by home fans at home during the first game, first put out the urgent fire with the victory.
AFC introduced on the 11th, “South Korea suffered a great setback in the first game amid boos, but after going through many changes, it made a positive start against Oman.”
Coach Hong Myung-bo, who was criticized for his lack of energy of the main players in the first round, changed five starters, including Hwang Hee-chan (Wolverhampton), in the second round. AFC pointed out that the change was effective, saying, “The new players on the starting list proved that they were justified to be included.”
He also praised Son, who was the hero of the match. Son scored one goal and two assists, and was involved in all three of Korea’s goals. 안전놀이터
In particular, the mid-range winning goal scored in the 37th minute of the second half with his personal ability in an area where five opposing defenders were concentrated was excellent.
AFC praised, “Son Heung-min performed magic outside the penalty box and shot into the corner of the goal to score.”