'Moreno's Debut Match' Ecuador's Head Coach, Who Suffered a 0-3 Defeat in Korea, Says "I'm Frustrated... There Was Much to Learn" [Suwon Field]

*This content was translated by AI.

Even the head coach of a South American powerhouse expressed admiration for the strength of the South Korean national football team under new manager Roberto Moreno.

Ecuador suffered a decisive 0-3 defeat against the South Korean national football team in the Hana Bank Invitational National Team Friendly Match held at Suwon World Cup Stadium on the afternoon of the 24th.

Head coach Marcelo Gallardo stated in a post-match press conference, "The first match did not go as planned. There are still many shortcomings, and we need to improve much more." He added, "The first half went as intended. However, it was revealed in the second half that the players' physical condition was not good."

Ecuador fought a fierce battle for midfield control against South Korea in the first half, competing on equal terms, but their defense crumbled significantly in the second half, leading to a scoreless defeat. Starting with Oh Hyeon-gyu (Besiktas) scoring the opening goal in the 9th minute of the second half, they conceded Son Heung-min's (LAFC) free-kick goal in the 13th minute and Lee Dong-gyeong's (Ulsan HD) decisive goal in the 41st minute of the second half before collapsing.

Gallardo's match in Korea was his debut as an Ecuador head coach. Manager Moreno also made his first appearance leading the team in Korea. Regarding the heavy defeat in the opening match, Gallardo said, "It is important to provide psychological stability to the players. There are a few tactical issues that need to be corrected." He explained, "While I am frustrated with the match result, we must also consider the situation Ecuador finds itself in. Since it was an away game, I expected there would be physical challenges. I felt that gap firsthand."

He further added, "It is important to calmly comfort the players and boost their morale. During the remaining A-match games, we will reorganize and perfect our tactics. We will also prepare diligently for the next match."

Moreover, regardless of the win or loss, he emphasized a more important value: "Although the preparation time was not long, I must bear the responsibility for the defeat." He stated, "Today's defeat is painful, but it will become an opportunity to learn."

Regarding his repeated mention of the players' physical issues, he vowed, "The first-half performance was fine. However, we got caught up in South Korea's second-half performance with excellent conditions. I hope this match becomes a turning point for Ecuador's growth after thorough analysis."

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*This content was translated by AI.