Captain Son apologises after South Korea’s meek World Cup exit

DOHA: Son Heung-min apologised after his South Korean aspect exited the World Cup following a sobering 4-1 defeat to favourites Brazil in the last 16 in Qatar.

The captain and talisman was powerless as Brazil scored 4 occasions within the first half on Monday (Dec 5), earlier than Paik Seung-ho netted a 76th-minute comfort for the outclassed Koreans.

South Korea have nonetheless by no means received a World Cup knockout tie outdoors of their dwelling nation.

“I can solely apologise to our followers for not dwelling as much as their expectations,” mentioned the 30-year-old Tottenham ahead, who performed in a masks in Qatar following facial surgery final month.

“We did our greatest however I feel we performed a really tough recreation,” he instructed TV reporters.

“Nonetheless, there is no such thing as a doubt that every one the gamers battled proudly, devoted themselves and labored arduous to get this far.

“The gamers and employees actually did their greatest to organize for this match, so I hope you perceive.”

South Korea coach Paulo Bento introduced within the instant aftermath of the heavy defeat that he wouldn’t be staying on, a call he mentioned was made in September.

The 53-year-old former Portugal worldwide had been in cost since 2018.

Son, who failed to attain on the match and confirmed solely fleeting glimpses of his greatest kind, mentioned he was sorry to see the boss go.

“I by no means as soon as had any doubt in regards to the model of soccer he pursued,” Son instructed Korean media in a reference to critics, who mentioned Bento was too cautious at occasions.

“Lots of people had reservations about it however all of them cheered for us after we performed properly on the World Cup right here. We had been in a position to execute issues we might labored on for the final 4 years.”

“It is actually unhappy to see him go,” Son added.