Following rather spirited performances in their World Cup openers, South Korea and Ghana will lock horns with each other in what promises to be a defining game for both sides in the tournament.
Ghana lost 3-2 to plucky Portugal in their opener but their performance was certainly worth praise, whereas Paulo Bento’s South Korea managed to hold Uruguay to a goalless draw. Many times, the Asian side had Uruguay struggling while dominating possession.
A win for South Korea could enhance their chances of progressing, but a loss for Ghana will knock them out of the World Cup altogether.
Last five games
South Korea: LDWWD
Ghana: WLWWL
Team news
While Son Heung-min did well enough in the tournament opener against Uruguay, another Premier League star in Hwang Hee-chan will not be able to feature today as he has picked up a hamstring injury. He was on the bench last week. Star centre-back Kim Min-jae is also a doubt due a calf issue.
For Ghana, there are no injury concerns and Otto Addo has a fully fit squad available to him. But he could make some tactical changes to the side, as Kamaldeen Sulemana could make a start.
South Korea possible starting lineup:
Seung-gyu; Moon-hwan, Min-jae, Young-gwon, Jin-su; Jung, In-beom; Na, Lee, Son; Ui-jo
Ghana possible starting lineup:
Ati Zigi; Lamptey, Amartey, Djiku, Baba; Partey, Abdul Samed; Sulemana, Kudus, A. Ayew; Williams
GWFN