‘Optimism after Klinsmann firing? Shattered’
This is a sharp criticism from ESPN, an American sports publication.
On June 26 (KST), ESPN ranked ‘South Korea’s rebound’ as the top hot topic among the ‘5 issues to watch in the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asia qualifiers’.
“South Korea is trying to bounce back after a shocking draw against Thailand,” the publication said, adding, “Even with the draw, South Korea remains in control of Group C, but an unsatisfactory result against Thailand on Tuesday in Bangkok could be devastating.
South Korea drew 1-1 with Thailand in the third match of Group C of the 2026 North and Central American World Cup Asia Second Qualifying Round at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on Nov. 21.
Despite the absence of Hwang Hee-chan, they were virtually at full strength. Despite an early goal from Son Heung-min (Tottenham), they drew 1-1. The 2-1 draw kept them top of the group, but it was a shocker. They conceded a late equalizer to Thailand’s speedy Supanat Mueanta, and were unable to turn the tide.
The game was important.
South Korea had failed to win the Asian Cup in 64 years. They lost to Jordan in the quarterfinals.
The primary culprit was coach Jürgen Klinsmann, whose frequent foreign trips, ineffective tactics, and four-dimensional “smile” led South Korean soccer into a downward spiral. In the process, Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in, two of South Korea’s top soccer players, clashed in what became known as “Ping Ponggate,” tearing the national team apart.
In the end, Klinsmann was fired. Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in dramatically reconciled and started a new beginning. Hwang Sun-hong took over as head coach.
However, the results were not promising. 안전놀이터 추천 They were held to a draw at home by Thailand, a team that is considered to be one of the worst teams in the world.
ESPN made an odd comment.
“South Korea fired coach Jürgen Klinsmann, who was in a negative mood. There were hopes that they would enjoy an immediate rebound. However, a draw at home against Thailand shattered that optimism.
‘They took the lead in the first half through Son Heung-min, but failed to capitalize. A game that was expected to be an easy win ended in a draw. If we don’t get a satisfactory result against Thailand, it could have a negative impact.