Guadalajara: By scoring the last-gasp goal that helped send South Korea into the knockouts at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Hwang Hee-chan etched himself into the national sports lore. Back for his third straight World Cup this summer in Mexico, the midfielder wants to create even more memorable moments. According to Yonhap News Agency, Hwang expressed his aspirations before a training session at Chivas Verde Valle in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, on Monday. With South Korea's first Group A match against Czechia just three days away, Hwang emphasized the importance of repeating his past success. "Obviously, if we can have another play like that, it will be great for myself and for our team," he stated. "I am working hard for a moment like that. I will try to show one in every match." Hwang's stoppage-time goal, assisted by Son Heung-min in a counter break, was pivotal in South Korea's 2-1 victory over Portugal in their final Group H match in 2022. This victory, coupled with Uruguay's 2-0 win over Ghana in a match that concluded slightly later, propelled South Korea into the round of 16. Notably, South Korea's advancement would not have been possible had Ghana secured a win in their finale. The midfielder is now focused on leading South Korea to another successful World Cup outing alongside his close friends, defender Kim Min-jae and midfielder Hwang In-beom. "This is going to be a special World Cup for everyone, not just the three of us," Hwang remarked, highlighting the camaraderie within the team. "I think we are the bridge between veterans and younger guys. We want to make sure young players feel comfortable and get along with some older players." Despite enduring a challenging Premier League season with Wolverhampton Wanderers, where the club finished last and was relegated, Hwang is determined to make a significant impact at the World Cup. Limited to three goals in 31 matches in all competitions, he is among the highly paid players expected to transfer this summer. A strong World Cup performance could i ncrease his appeal in the transfer market. Hwang is committed to prioritizing team success over personal ambitions. "Every match is important, but the first match is especially so," he said. "Physically, I feel good. I am not here to play well just for my own transfer. Whenever I am with the national team, I always put the team first."
