Zapopan: South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo praised his players for their effort following a 1-0 loss to Mexico on Thursday at the FIFA World Cup, emphasizing the importance of focusing on their final group stage match rather than dwelling on the defeat.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea appeared to be in control of the match but conceded the match's lone goal five minutes after the restart at Estadio Guadalajara in Zapopan, western Mexico. Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu attempted to grab a header by Raul Jimenez but collided with his own defender, Lee Gi-hyuk, allowing Luis Romo to score for Mexico.
Hong expressed satisfaction with his players' execution of their plans despite the disappointing result. He speculated that a communication breakdown between Kim and Lee led to the goal. Hong reminded his team of the need to avoid losing possession in dangerous areas and highlighted their control of the match after the initial 20 minutes.
The loss prevented South Korea from securing a spot in the knockouts with one match to spare. Mexico claimed that achievement instead, but South Korea can still qualify with a win or draw against South Africa in their final Group A match.
South Africa, last in Group A with one point, will face South Korea without key players Teboho Mokoena and Themba Zwane due to suspensions. Hong cautioned his players against complacency, stressing the importance of organization against a team with good speed.