Korean national football team captain Son Heung-min (30, Tottenham) expressed his feelings about advancing to the round of 16, saying, "Thanks to the support of the people, the players received energy and strength to jump one step further."
Korea defeated Portugal 2-1 in the 3rd Group H match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar World Cup held at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar on the 3rd and advanced to the round of 16 as second in the group.
Son Heung-min said in a broadcast interview after the game, "It was a difficult game as I thought, and it was even more so because I conceded at the beginning."
Unable to hide tears of joy, he added, "I did my best at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but I couldn't get this result, but I'm so happy that I got a result this time, and I'm really proud of the players."
Son Heung-min, who reached the round of 16 for the first time in his third World Cup appearance, said, "I've been waiting for this moment for a long time, and I thought the players could definitely do it." It's embarrassing," he stressed.
Ahead of this tournament, he injured his face and went to the stadium wearing a mask. When asked, "Isn't the fighting spirit of the mask the driving force behind advancing to the round of 16?" he said, "I don't think so." I was able to play a good game with the energy and strength of running.”
Regarding his determination for the round of 16, Son Heung-min said, "The round of 16 was our goal, and we will do our best in the upcoming game. In soccer, no one knows the outcome."
He couldn't hide his joy, saying, "I hope we can prepare well for a few days and do our best to show a good game."
(Photo = Getty Image Korea)