*This content was translated by AI.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America approaches, foreign media outlets are evaluating the strength of the participating nations. In this context, a sober assessment has emerged regarding the South Korean national football team.
On the 14th (Korean time), Sports Illustrated stated, "South Korea is the most successful and consistent Asian nation in World Cup history," and analyzed the team's strength by asking, "Will it show a performance befitting its reputation this summer as well?"
The outlet introduced South Korea's participation in its 12th World Cup stage and highlighted the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup "semi-final legend," the country's best-ever result, as the highest achievement by an Asian nation in the tournament.
It continued, "Reproducing that performance at this North America World Cup may not be an easy task for South Korea. However, it has been drawn into a group with solid yet challenging opponents such as Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic. It also passed the Asian qualifiers smoothly." The report added, "Expectations are growing that South Korea, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, will achieve meaningful results at the World Cup."
South Korea recorded six wins and four draws (22 points) in the Asian final qualifiers, finishing first in Group B. In the upcoming North America World Cup, it is placed in Group A alongside "host nation" Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic. This is a group setup that offers a realistic chance to reach the round of 32.
Regarding the team's head coach, the report stated, "He is a commander who prioritizes results over playing style." It explained, "Hong Myung-bo is leading the South Korean national team again. He also coached the team at the 2014 Brazil World Cup. At that time, South Korea was eliminated without a single win, and he resigned. This time, both results and performance have improved compared to then. Coach Hong is actively selecting players in good condition. He is also freeing up the team to attack more freely."
The outlet noted that South Korea's formation is 3-4-3, a tactic that prioritizes defense over attack. It also discussed strengths and weaknesses. While star players and a solid back three were cited as strengths, the report pointed out high reliance on wing-backs and star players as weaknesses.
The outlet said, "Coach Hong basically uses a back three. However, the wing-backs often drop deep rather than advancing, taking a shape close to a back five. While this makes it difficult for opponents to break through, it can also be a double-edged sword that limits South Korea's attack."
It further expressed concern, "The team also relies heavily on Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in. These two players penetrate the center or spread wide on the flanks, executing effective combination play. This constantly threatens opponents. However, if opponents manage to neutralize these two, South Korea may suffer from a lack of creativity and goal-scoring power."
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*This content was translated by AI.
