[Sportschosun, Lee Ji-hyun] Broadcaster Jang Sung-kyu expressed disappointment over Son Heung-min being left out of the starting lineup.
On the 25th, Jang Sung-kyu wrote, “Oh... Son Heung-min...” and voiced his regret that captain Son Heung-min had been excluded from the starting XI.
He added his support, saying, “Still, I really hope they win no matter what!! I want to stop South Africa’s attackers, and the player named ‘I really want to block’ is such a name. Let’s go Korea, round of 32!!!!!”
At 10 a.m. KST that day, South Korea will face South Africa in the third Group A match of the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) North and Central America World Cup at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico.
Regarding Son Heung-min’s exclusion from the starting lineup, coach Hong Myung-bo said in an interview with a broadcaster, “Considering the opponent’s physical condition, I judged that it would be much better for the team and for him to come on in the second half,” adding, “We have a model prepared for the match situation, so we will carry it out well.”
Meanwhile, a win or a draw against South Africa on this day would secure a place in the round of 32.
olzllovely@sportschosun.com
