KIA Tigers manager "I saw both the equalizer and the go-ahead goal for South Korea in the World Cup! But what was truly fascinating was..." the very first introduction of "this."

*This content was translated by AI.

Lee Beom-ho (44), the commanding figure of the KIA Tigers and a "national hero of the WBC," expressed joy over the South Korean national football team's victory.

Ahead of the regular-season home game against the Doosan Bears at Gwangju-KIA Champions Field on the 12th, Manager Lee spoke with reporters in an interview and was asked about the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup.

The South Korean national football team, led by manager Hong Myung-bo (FIFA ranking 25th), conceded the opening goal in their Group A first match against Czech Republic (41st) at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 12th (Korean time). However, they secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory, powered by consecutive goals from Hwang In-beom (Feyenoord) and Oh Hyeon-gyu (Besiktas).

The South Korea-Czech Republic match kicked off at 11 a.m. This allowed KBO League players and coaching staff whose schedules did not overlap with the match time to watch the game individually.

Manager Lee said, "I saw both the equalizer and the go-ahead goal," then added with a smile, "I didn't see the first half, but when I turned on the TV, the second half had just started."

What particularly caught Manager Lee's attention was the scene where advertisements aired during the match broadcast. It was similar to how advertisements appear in baseball every time an inning ends.

There was a reason. Until now, football matches proceeded without interruption from the start of the first half through the second half, including any added time. Consequently, advertisements could not be shown during the match.

However, starting with this World Cup, a "Hydration Break" has been implemented to allow players to rehydrate during the match. The game is paused for about three minutes approximately 22 minutes into each half, providing time for players to drink water. Advertisements can be broadcast during this televised interval.

Manager Lee remarked, "It was fascinating. Advertisements are shown in the middle of the match?" After expressing surprise, he added, "Anyway, the national team won their first match. We will also strive to play a game where we can draw on that positive energy and secure a victory."

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*This content was translated by AI.