Inspired by Saudi Victory, National Team Says "We Also Have Hope"

Two Days Before the Uruguay Match, Regaining Match Fitness
"Only Winning Remains" Hwang Hee-chan Trains Indoors

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The South Korean national football team was greatly encouraged by Saudi Arabia's impressive performance. They showed confidence as they prepared for the showdown against Uruguay.

Led by head coach Paulo Bento, the team sweated it out on the afternoon of the 22nd (local time) at the Al Egla training ground in Doha, Qatar. With only two days left before their first match in Group H of the 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup against Uruguay, they focused on regaining their match fitness.

Just before the training session, at Lusail Stadium, Saudi Arabia secured a 2-1 comeback victory over the tournament favorite Argentina in their first Group C match. It was the biggest upset of the tournament and the first win for an Asian nation.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The players attached significant meaning to this. Left-back Kim Jin-su said, "As everyone knows, football is a game where strong teams can lose and weaker teams can win," adding, "Since Saudi Arabia won as an Asian country, I think there is hope for us as well." He continued, "Like many people want, I believe all that remains is to prepare well and win against Uruguay."

In fact, the players were highly motivated. With determined expressions, they listened to Coach Bento's instructions, let out strong shouts, and then dispersed to start training. The field players split into four groups to practice basic moves such as ball stealing and reviewed various offensive and defensive tactics.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Son Heung-min, recovering from an orbital fracture, participated in all training sessions. Only Hwang Hee-chan (Wolverhampton), who has discomfort in his left hamstring, trained indoors. It is reported that he still feels discomfort since arriving in Doha. There is a growing possibility that Na Sang-ho, who has high activity levels, or Song Min-gyu, known for his breakthrough ability, will start in the match against Uruguay instead.