Goyang: South Korea's head coach, Hong Myung-bo, is focusing on enhancing communication and leadership among his defenders in the upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Oman, following the absence of a key player.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea, currently ranked 23rd in the world, is set to face 80th-ranked Oman at 8 p.m. on Thursday at Goyang Stadium. The team will play without their top center back, Kim Min-jae of Bayern Munich, who is sidelined with left Achilles tendinitis. Hong has called up FC Seoul defender Kim Ju-sung as a replacement. Kim Ju-sung has limited experience with only two caps and last played for the national team in October 2023.
During the prematch press conference, Hong highlighted the need to find the right defensive lineup using players familiar with the team's system. He emphasized the importance of communication and leadership skills in the defense. Hong noted that this situation presents an opportunity for some players, and he feels confident that those who may get the chance are prepared to step in.
South Korea is expected to perform strongly against Oman. However, Hong warned about the need to counter Oman's long-ball tactics. He stressed the importance of strategic responses to Oman's attacking patterns and the necessity of effective play on the second ball.
The training camp for the match commenced on Monday, but due to travel schedules of Europe-based players, the full squad only assembled by Wednesday. Their first joint training session was scheduled for Wednesday evening. Hong acknowledged the critical nature of team chemistry in football and the challenges of developing it in limited time. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in his players' talent and expected responsible performances.
This match marks the seventh encounter for both teams in the third round of the Asian qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. South Korea leads Group B with 14 points from four wins and two draws, followed by Iraq with 11 points and Jordan with nine. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the World Cup, and South Korea can secure their spot by winning the next two home matches, including an upcoming game against Jordan.