South Korea qualified for the round of 16 after Hwang Hee-Chan’s dramatic stoppage-time winner. Despite losing, Portugal have qualified as Group H winners.
Hwang Hee-Chan makes history
The 26-year-old forward scored a remarkable 91st minute winner which subsequently sent South Korea through to the knockout phase. The second-half substitute took his goal well as he calmly stroked home past Diogo Costa.
It is the first time in World Cup history that three teams from the Asian confederation are through to the knockout stages of the tournament.
Diogo Dalot shines
Dalot throughout his career as a Manchester United player, has often struggled to find consistency. But since Erik ten Hag’s appointment as manager, he appears to have levelled up his game. The Portuguese right-back has certainly carried his club form through to the World Cup as he once again displayed a near faultless performance against South Korea. He assisted the opener after his pinpoint cross found Ricardo Horta. A glowing exhibit of his talent.
Are South Korea a dark horse?
South Korea could well replace Uruguay as the tournament’s dark horse. With Hwang now back from injury and Napoli centre-back, Kim Min-jae on the mend, they will certainly be nearing a full strength squad for their round of 16 game. With an array of pace in attack, Paulo Bento’s side can hurt any team, especially on the counter-attack. Tottenham Hotspur forward, Son Heung-min is undoubtedly the outstanding star for South Korea but actually, as a collective, they have a really strong team. Unquestionably one to watch.
Mark Marston | GWFN
