South Korea’s national team captain Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur메이저놀이터) played for the fans despite his poor physical condition.
The Korean national soccer team, led by coach Jurgen Klinsmann, drew 1-1 with El Salvador in a friendly match for the national soccer team invited by Hana Bank held at Daejeon World Cup Stadium on the 20th. As a result of this day, Korea again postponed its first victory after Klinsman took over. They have played 4 matches so far, 2 draws and 2 losses.
Klinsmanho’s first win was also important to the squad. He emphasized that everyone wants to win with one voice. This mindset was well understood when looking at Son Heung-min.
Son Heung-min underwent sports hernia surgery after the season. Son Heung-min, who is in the process of recovery, did not play against Peru on the 16th. He watched the game from the bench and focused on his recovery. However, when he lost the match against Peru, he announced a sortie.
Coach Klinsman said at a press conference ahead of the match against El Salvador, “I feel good as Son Heung-min digests the team’s training.”
As he said, Son Heung-min showed up against El Salvador. He was substituted in the 24th minute of the second half and hit the ground. The spectators who filled the stadium greeted the return of the captain with warm cheers. Son Heung-min returned, but Klins Man-ho’s first victory was postponed again to September. He bowed his head.
After the match, Son Heung-min said, “I’m so sorry.”
He said, “If I always go in as a substitute and concede, it feels like my fault and I think, ‘If I had done better,’” he said.
He returned to the ground, but Son Heung-min’s physical condition was somewhat far from normal. He said, “It has been a long time since I haven’t kicked the ball much,” and “I can’t say I’m perfect yet.” There was also a fear of his injury. Heung-Min Son, who said, “I’m actually scared,” confessed, “I’ve felt pain for a long time, so there’s a question, ‘Wouldn’t it hurt if I did this motion?'”
Even so, Son Heung-min played for the fans. On that day, 39,823 fans visited the Daejeon World Cup Stadium to support the national team despite inclement weather. At the Busan Asiad Main Stadium, 52,443 fans cheered on the spot. A whopping 92,266 fans were with the national team in the two matches.
Son Heung-min revealed the reason for playing despite not being perfect, saying, “Actually, in a way, I took a little risk and made the decision to put in to greet the fans.”
Finally, Son Heung-min said, “It is always difficult to get the first win, first step, and first button. After the first victory, I will be able to do well because I have confidence,” he said.