Several South Korean media outlets expressed disappointment with captain Son Heung-min’s performance against the Czech Republic during South Korea’s opening Group A match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 12.
South Korea came from behind to beat the Czech Republic 2-1, securing their first win of the tournament. However, despite the fans’ high expectations, captain Son struggled to make a significant impact on the match.
After Son was substituted in the 69th minute, Korean channel My Daily commented: “It was hard to believe: Son looked lost. He took five shots but couldn’t score. In the end, he had to be replaced.”
The report also suggests that Son failed to show his best form in South Korea’s World Cup opener. According to the newspaper, if the LAFC striker had been more clinical in front of goal, South Korea could have taken the lead in the first half.
Meanwhile, Best Eleven highlighted midfielder Hwang In-beom as the best performer who stole the spotlight from Son in the opening match. The Feyenoord player put in an impressive performance with a goal and an assist, helping South Korea secure all three points.
Football statistics platform FotMob gave Son a rating of 7.0 for his nearly 70-minute appearance against the Czech Republic. The LAFC forward managed only one shot on target and missed a clear scoring opportunity in a one-on-one with the opposing goalkeeper.
Before kick-off, Son made history by being the second South Korean footballer to participate in four FIFA World Cups, equaling the achievements of legendary former captain Hong Myung-bo, who is currently the coach of the South Korean national team.
After the first round of matches, South Korea are second in Group A behind host nation Mexico due to goal difference.
Sources: Znews
