As South Korea prepares for the World Cup, all eyes are on Son Heung-min, the nation’s beloved striker, who has been a cornerstone of the team for years. However, Son’s recent goal drought has raised concerns about his ability to lead the team in the upcoming tournament.
Son’s Recent Performance
Son, who recently transferred from Tottenham Hotspur to Los Angeles FC in 2025, has struggled to find the back of the net this season, failing to score in 13 consecutive league games. Despite his continued ability to assist his teammates, South Korea relies heavily on his goal-scoring prowess.
With 56 international goals, Son is just two goals shy of surpassing Cha Bum-kun as South Korea’s all-time leading scorer. However, the next highest scorer in the squad, Hwang Hee-chan, has only 17 goals and typically plays as a wide forward, leaving a potential gap in the central striker position.
Potential Changes in Strategy
In a recent friendly against Trinidad and Tobago, Son showed glimpses of his former self by scoring twice in a 5-0 victory. Yet, if his scoring struggles persist, coach Hong Myung-bo may consider shifting Son to a support role, allowing Oh Hyeon-gyu, a former Celtic forward now with Besiktas, to lead the attack with his physical presence.
Son had contemplated retiring from international play after South Korea’s semi-final exit at the Asian Cup in 2024, and it is unlikely he will continue after this World Cup. His departure would leave a significant void in leadership and star power for the team.
Upcoming Challenges
South Korea faces a challenging Group A, starting with a match against the experienced Czech Republic on June 11. With co-hosts Mexico expected to be a formidable opponent in their second match, the Koreans will need to secure points early to advance. They will conclude their group stage against South Africa.
While many pundits doubt South Korea’s chances of progressing beyond the round of 16, the team has a history of surprising performances, such as their memorable run to the semi-finals in 2002. Fans remain hopeful that Son and his teammates can once again defy expectations on the world stage.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
