In a disappointing turn of events for South Korea's men's national football team, they drew 1-1 against Oman during the FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers held on March 20, 2025, at the Goyang Sports Complex. Coach Hong Myung-bo's side needed a win to inch closer to early qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Instead, they managed only a single point, complicating their journey in the qualifiers.
The match kicked off at 8 PM KST in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. Fans filled the stands, passionately cheering for their team and singing the national anthem, eager to witness a crucial victory. South Korea initiated the offensive with Joo Min-kyu leading the charge at striker, supported by well-known talents like Son Heung-min and Hwang Hee-chan on the wings.
Things seemed promising when Hwang Hee-chan scored in the 41st minute of the first half. After being substituted in for Baek Seung-ho due to injury, Lee Kang-in quickly adjusted to the pace of the match. His strategic pass to Hwang led to a well-executed goal that put Korea ahead 1-0 as the crowds erupted in celebration.
However, the jubilation was cut short as the game progressed into the second half. South Korea, holding on to their slim lead, sought to press their advantage. Oh Se-hoon replaced Joo in the 46th minute, bringing fresh energy to the offense, which forced Oman to defend more fervently. Just minutes after his introduction, Oh threatened the goal with a powerful header, showcasing South Korea’s intent.
While the South Korean players pressed for a second goal, Oman began to shift tactics, opting to challenge more aggressively. Their persistence paid off with a critical equalizer in the 80th minute. Ali Al-Busaidi broke through South Korea's defense, finding space to unleash a strong left-footed shot from just outside the box. The goal came as a shock to a South Korean side that had controlled much of the match, despite a few missed opportunities.
The equalizing goal not only shifted momentum back to Oman but also reflected upon the injury-stricken South Korean squad. Lee Kang-in, a pivotal player in the match's momentum, faced his own injury challenges and was carried off the field after the equalizer, unable to contribute further.
Despite the draw, South Korea remained atop Group B with 15 points from four wins and three draws, but they could not afford any complacency. The next match against Jordan on March 25, 2025, at the Suwon World Cup Stadium looms large. Another slip could jeopardize their long-cherished goal of reaching the World Cup for the 11th consecutive time.
Coach Hong's tactics have been under scrutiny following this draw, particularly concerning substitutions and adjustments during play. "If South Korea had defeated Oman, they could have confirmed their advancement to the World Cup," stated Kyeongin News, encapsulating the stakes of the contest.
In preparation for the upcoming match against Jordan, the team will need to regroup, recover from injuries, and refine their strategies to regain the dominant form they showed earlier in the qualifiers. With continued support from their fans, South Korea aims to reclaim their glory and ensure a place in the World Cup.
