“We had the numerical advantage early on, but it was unfortunate that we didn’t score many goals.”
Kim Eun-joong, 44, said after South Korea’s 2-2 draw with Honduras in their second Group F match at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Argentina 2023 at the Mendoza Stadium in Mendoza, Argentina, on Saturday (June 26).
On the day, the Kim-led South Korea U-20s conceded an early goal on a penalty kick (PK) in the 22nd minute of the first half, and found themselves down by a further goal six minutes into the second half. However, they refused to give up and eventually tied the game. Kim Yong-hak (20-Portimonense) and Park Seung-ho (19-Incheon United) scored back-to-back goals in the 13th and 17th minutes of the second half, respectively, to tie the game.
Kim Eun-jung-ho continued to dominate from there. Especially since they had the numerical advantage, they constantly attacked and pounded the Honduran goal. However, as they were unable to finish in front of the goal, they were unable to turn the game around and had to settle for a draw.
“We had the numerical advantage early on, but it was difficult to score because Honduras sat back. There were parts where the players were not calm when we created chances,” said Kim, “It’s unfortunate that we didn’t score more goals.” 안전놀이터
There was also injury news. Park Seung-ho, who scored the equalizer, collapsed within minutes and had to be substituted. He was later caught on camera icing his ankle on the bench. Coach Kim said, “It was an unexpected injury. We’ll have to wait and see,” Kim said, adding, “I hope the other players can fill the void.”
The draw leaves South Korea in second place in Group F with one win, one draw and four points. A draw or better in their final group game against the Gambia on Sept. 29 will see them qualify for the round of 16 in second place. If they lose and drop to third place, the other group results will determine the round of 16. “We need to give more than 100 percent against the Gambia,” said Kim. We will recover well and prepare to the best of our abilities,” Kim said.