Yongin: South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo defended his players in the aftermath of the team's loss to Japan that cost them a chance to win the East Asian football title at home Tuesday, stating that only a momentary lapse of concentration made the difference. South Korea finished in second place behind Japan at the East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Football Championship, after falling 1-0 in their final match at Yongin Mireu Stadium, some 40 kilometers south of Seoul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea were unable to score despite having a 9-4 edge in shot attempts and a 58-42 advantage in ball possession. It marked South Korea's third consecutive loss to Japan, the longest losing streak in the history of their rivalry, without scoring in any of those encounters. Despite the setback, Hong insisted that his players outperformed their opponents.
Hong expressed that Japan did not manage to showcase their strengths or instill fear in the South Korean defense. He attributed the goal conceded to a brief loss of focus. Hong highlighted Japan's consistent structure, which allows for seamless integration of new players, whereas South Korea had only begun experimenting with new tactics, such as the back-three formation, at the start of this EAFF event.
The coach apologized to fans for not achieving the desired result but emphasized the hope he saw in his players. The tournament served as an opportunity for Hong to test relatively less experienced players from the domestic K League and Japan's J1 League, given that clubs were not obligated to release national team mainstays based in Europe and the Middle East.
Without naming specific players, Hong observed significant potential in about five individuals. He noted that some players excelled in the back-three setup, potentially earning them a chance to play at the World Cup. Hong acknowledged the short time spent with this group of players but praised their attitude throughout the tournament.
Hong pointed out areas for improvement, particularly in gap control between midfielders and defenders. With Japan also fielding a squad of J1 League players, the match showcased the best homegrown players from both countries.
Regarding Japan's continued upper hand in the rivalry, Hong attributed it to differences in youth football training. He noted Japan's consistency in their approach since the 1990s and called for a collective effort in South Korean football to focus beyond just wins and losses.