Broadcaster Jang Seong-gyu. [Herald POP (now Herald Muse) provided]
Broadcaster Jang Seong-gyu. [Herald POP (now Herald Muse) provided]

Broadcaster Jang Seong-gyu expressed disappointment after Son Heung-min was left out of the starting lineup for South Korea's 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match against South Africa.

On Thursday, Jang posted a screenshot on Instagram of a news article reporting Son's omission from the starting eleven, writing, "Oh, Son Heung-min." He added, "Still, I hope we win no matter what."

Jang also wrote, "South Africa's striker Fagrie Lakay — now that's a name I really want to stop. Come on, Korea, let's get to the round of 32."

The Group A third-round match between South Korea and South Africa kicked off at 10 a.m. Thursday (Korea Standard Time) at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico. South Korea entered the match with one win and one loss in the group stage, needing a win or a draw to secure a place in the round of 32.

Coach Hong Myung-bo addressed Son's absence in a pre-match broadcast interview, saying he decided it would be better for both the team and the player to bring Son on in the second half after assessing the physical demands of the opposition. "We have a prepared game plan, and we will carry it out well," Hong added.


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