*This content was translated by AI.
Spanish legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas (46) strongly criticized the officiating at the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup, labeling it a "conspiracy targeting Europe."
France's "L'Équipe" reported on the 12th (Korean time) that "Casillas made strong criticisms of FIFA while referencing Spain's loss to Korea and the controversial officiating during the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup."
Just before the opening of the Korea-Japan World Cup, Casillas stepped in as the starting goalkeeper at age 21 after Santiago Canizares, the original first-choice keeper, suffered an injury. Recalling his team's loss to South Korea via penalty shootout in the quarterfinals, he raised his voice and stated, "Judging by the match performance alone, the result should never have happened."
He further assessed that the tournament left a major shockwave across the entire football community. Casillas claimed, "The Korea-Japan World Cup severely shook the referee organization, selection process, and underlying issues behind officiating decisions." He added, "Italy suffered at the hands of South Korea in the round of 16, and Portugal also lost its way after falling 0-1 to South Korea in the group stage."
He continued, "I believe there was indeed a conspiracy targeting European nations," and repeatedly condemned the tournament for severely damaging FIFA's image.
Since retiring in 2020, Casillas has remained highly active as a La Liga ambassador, deputy chairman of the Real Madrid Foundation, and vice president of the Spanish Footballers' Association (AFE). He founded a sports marketing company and is currently working on the "Kings League" project with Piqué, while also maintaining communication with football legends through his podcast.
During his playing career, Casillas was a legendary goalkeeper who led both Real Madrid and the Spanish national team through their golden era. Despite standing at 182cm — short for a goalkeeper — he perfectly offset his physical disadvantage with animal-like reflexes and exceptional judgment. Moving between club and country, he lifted numerous trophies and delivered crucial saves in decisive moments, leaving an indelible mark on world football history.
Notably, Casillas visited South Korea last September to participate in the "2025 Icon Match," bringing great joy to domestic fans. Making his first trip to Korea since the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup quarterfinals, he actively experienced Korean culture by visiting Gwangjang Market and enjoying tteokbokki and bindaetteok. During the subsequent match, he delivered a dazzling display of saves reminiscent of his prime, earning thunderous applause from over 68,000 spectators.
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*This content was translated by AI.
