[On-site Video] "Wow, Goal!" Standing Ovation for Hwang Ui-jo's Equalizer... Korea vs. Brazil Cheer Battle

[Asia Economy PD Yoon Jin-geun] "Oh~ Goal!!!", "Hwang Ui-jo! Son Heung-min!", "Go Korea!"

On the evening of the 2nd at 8 PM, a national team soccer friendly match was held at Seoul World Cup Stadium. The South Korean national team led by Paulo Bento clashed with Brazil, coached by Adenor Leonardo Bacchi. Citizens gathered in groups at Nogari Alley in Euljiro, Jung-gu, Seoul, watching the game in various pubs.

Nearby pubs were so crowded with people from around 6:30 PM, before the soccer friendly match started, that they could no longer accept more customers. Citizens who could not find seats inside the pubs stopped walking and watched the soccer match.

South Korea's starting lineup included Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur), Hwang Ui-jo (Bordeaux), and Hwang Hee-chan (Wolverhampton). Brazil started with Neymar (Paris Saint-Germain), Richarlison (Everton), and Gabriel Jesus (Manchester City).

Citizens shouted and screamed at key moments. At the 31st minute of the first half, when Hwang Ui-jo scored the equalizer, the spectators cheered. However, when Neymar’s penalty kick went into the right side of the Korean goal at the 41st minute of the first half, the citizens sighed deeply.

That day, citizens enjoyed the outdoor cheering event held after a long time. They also wished for a game where the national team would not be overly concerned with winning or losing.

Kim Min-seo (23) said, “In the past, we couldn’t even go outside because of COVID-19, but now we can take off our masks outdoors, watch soccer games, and drink with friends, which is great.” She added, “I hope the Korean national team fights harder so that everyone in Euljiro can cheer more for Korea. Fighting!”

Jang Hyun-woong (31) said, “It’s good that social distancing has been eased and many people can watch soccer games together.” He continued, “Brazil is the number one FIFA-ranked team and a strong team, so I hope our team doesn’t lose by too much.” He added, “Even if the Korean team loses, I hope it will be a game from which we can learn a lot.”

Lee Sang-seon (48) said, “It’s been a while since a soccer friendly match was held in Korea, and it’s really nice to see world-class soccer players.” He added, “I think Neymar coming directly to Korea to play is enough of an issue.” Regarding the match result, he said, “I hope Korea wins, but even if they lose, I hope they play without injuries.”

Meanwhile, the Korean national team lost to Brazil 1-5 that day.