After scoring an injury-time equalizer before triumphing in extra time of their Asian Cup quarterfinal against Australia, South Korea’s play has been dubbed “zombie football” by their fans, a team that refuses to die. It’s a moniker coach Jurgen Klinsmann is happy with, even if he’d much rather his side win their next game inside 90 minutes.
A Thrilling Comeback
Down 1-0 thanks to Craig Goodwin’s first-half volley on Friday evening, the Taegeuk Warriors’ furious attempts to engineer a comeback eventually saw Son Heung-Min brought down by Lewis Miller with just seconds remaining at the Al Janoub stadium, opening the door for Hwang Hee-Chan to equalize from the spot in the 96th minute. Miller then leveled Hwang on the edge of the area in extra time, and Son curled a free kick beyond Maty Ryan in the Socceroos’ net in the 104th minute to seal a comeback win and a semifinal showdown with Jordan next Tuesday.
The Zombie-Fication of South Korea
It marked the fourth straight game in Doha that Korea had found the net after the expiration of the 90 minutes, hence their now, zombie-fied nickname as they seek to end a 64-year Asian Cup drought. Their ability to push themselves to the brink and still find the strength to fight back is a testament to their determination and resilience.
As for how his side can find it in themselves to continue to pull themselves back from the brink, as well as why they keep finding themselves in a position where they need to, Klinsmann believes it may be due to the weight of expectations in Korea. The country has been longing to bring home an Asian Cup title for more than six decades, and this desire may sometimes block the players in the first half of the matches. However, once they go down, they start to rally and unleash their true potential.
Klinsmann praised the wonderful group of players on the South Korean team, emphasizing their mental strength and togetherness. He believes that the players worry too much when the score is still nil-nil and reminds them not to be afraid. He encourages them to embrace the experience and see it as a fantastic opportunity to make their country and loved ones proud.
Son Heung-Min, the Tottenham Hotspur superstar, has been instrumental in South Korea’s journey in the Asian Cup. Despite playing 510 minutes across five games, he remains unfazed by fatigue or the label of “zombies.” Son is determined to bring the Asian crown back home and believes that the physical challenges they face only reinforce their unity as a team.
Son emphasizes the importance of mentality in their success. He believes that playing for one’s country should never be an excuse for anything less than giving their all. Regardless of fatigue or tiredness, Son believes there is no room for excuses when fighting for a trophy. With only four teams left in Doha, South Korea’s team will fight with everything they have to claim the coveted title.
South Korea’s “zombie football” has captivated fans and supporters alike. Their ability to stage incredible comebacks showcases their resilience and never-give-up attitude. As they head into the semifinals, the team’s determination, mental strength, and togetherness will continue to be their keys to success. Whether their nickname is undead or not, South Korea’s focus is unwavering, and they will stop at nothing to make their country proud and bring home the Asian Cup trophy.
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