Son Heung-min disappointed with Thailand draw

South Korea's Son Heung-min (R) attempts a shot during the third round of the Asian qualifier group C match for 2026 FIFA World Cup between South Korea and Thailand at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Seoul, South Korea, March 21, 2024. Photo by Yonhap via AP

At the home stadium Seoul World Cup on Thursday evening, South Korea had 79% possession, 25 shots, with eight on target but only scored once, thanks to Son's finish in the 41st minute. Meanwhile, with six shots and two on target, Thailand equalized in the 61st minute when substitute striker Suphanat Mueanta scored.

"I'm very disappointed with this result," Son said after the match. "The team played well but missed out on great chances and had to go through a difficult game."

After losing the first goal in the second qualifying round, South Korea immediately put on star midfielder Lee Kang-in. The host attacked constantly in the last 20 minutes, creating many favorable chances but failed to convert.

The South Korea captain was named man of the match but was not happy because he could not bring joy to more than 64,000 home fans.

He thanked the fans for filling the stadium to support the team.

Previously, South Korea national football team received a lot of criticism after getting eliminated from the Asian Cup semifinals, along with the conflict between Son and Lee Kang-in.

South Korea are still first in group C with seven points, three more than China and Thailand after three matches. On March 26, the team will play in Thailand.

"No match is easy. The next match will be even more difficult," Son said. "South Korea need to improve plenty."

After coach Jurgen Klinsmann was sacked, South Korea appointed interim manager Hwang Sun-hong.

Son believes that Hwang is new to the team and needs more time to work with the players. The captain called on his teammates to concentrate on their goal of defeating Thailand in the rematch next week.

 

 

Son Heung-min disappointed with Thailand draw

Hàn Quốc 1-1 Thái Lan