South Korea’s turbulent World Cup ended at the group phase on Saturday and could lead to the international retirement of captain Son Heung-min. After three days of anxious waiting to see if they would squeeze into the knockout rounds as one of the eight third-placed finishers, results went against South Korea to send them home. Hong Myung-bo’s side had the last 32 within grasp only to suffer a shock 1-0 loss to lower-ranked South Africa on Wednesday. Hong caused a surprise when he dropped the
attacking talisman Son to the bench in a gamble that backfired. They finished third in Group A behind the co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, having also lost 1-0 to Mexico. They beat the Czech Republic 2-1 to start their World Cup, but that was as good as it got for the much-maligned Hong and the fading Son. The criticism back home has been fierce, with Hong firmly in the firing line. Yonhap News Agency called South Korea’s premature exit “dismal”. “The national team suffered the
humiliation of a 2026 World Cup group-stage exit after three days of agonising hope,” Yonhap said. A headline in Newsis said: “Fortune deserts Hong Myung-bo’s side.” South Korea’s tournament was overshadowed by a row between the squad and local media, while a drone also buzzed a crucial training session before the Mexico defeat. Former Tottenham attacker Son, who now plays for Los Angeles FC, has hinted in the past at international retirement. The daily Sports Chosun expects that to be it now for the player
who has carried South Korea so often and scored 56 goals for his country. “Son Heung-min’s final World Cup ends in heartbreak,” a headline said. He turns 34 next month. ——————————– Where to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fans can watch every FIFA World Cup 2026™ match live on DStv Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Family and Access. All matches are also available to stream on supported packages, ensuring flexible viewing options wherever you are. How to stream the FIFA World Cup 2026™ With DStv
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South Korea, World Cup 2026, Hong Myung-bo, Son Heung-min, Mexico, South Africa, Czech Republic, Group A, international retirement, criticism