After a thrilling 3-3 draw against Malaysia, South Korea's Son Heung-min described the match as "a big wake-up call" for the team as they advanced to the knockout rounds of the Asian Cup.
The unexpected draw meant the Koreans secured their spot as Group E runners-up, avoiding a last-16 clash with Japan, the pre-tournament favourites.
In a post-match statement, Tottenham Hotspur forward Son emphasised the unpredictability of tournaments, stating, "When you go into a tournament, there are no favourites—there are always underdogs that catch you out." Reflecting on the challenges faced during the group stage, which included another draw with Jordan, Son expressed confidence, saying, "It was a big wake-up call to make us even stronger going into the knockout stage."
Despite the dramatic nature of the match, South Korea's skipper assured that the team would be prepared to face any opponent in the knockout rounds. Son acknowledged the importance of being ready for formidable teams and described the experience as a reality check that would strengthen their resolve.
In the final Group E standings, Bahrain claimed the top spot and will face Japan, while South Korea secured their place in the last 16. Jeong Woo-yeong gave Korea an early lead, but Malaysia mounted a comeback with goals from Faisal Halim and Arif Aiman. Son and Lee Kang-in contributed to a late equaliser, but the Malaysians managed to secure a 3-3 draw with a last-minute goal from Romel Morales.
South Korea's coach, Jurgen Klinsmann, acknowledged the challenges faced during the group stage but expressed confidence in his team's ability to compete at the highest level. Klinsmann emphasised that the tournament truly starts now for South Korea, and despite letting in six goals in the group stage, he believes they can perform better in the knockout rounds.
Looking ahead, Son outlined the team's determination to learn from the experience and secure victory in the Asian Cup, a title they haven't won in 64 years. Klinsmann echoed this sentiment, welcoming the return of Hwang Hee-chan and stating that South Korea is "definitely" capable of winning the title. On the Malaysian side, coach Kim Pan-gon praised his team's performance, describing it as an opportunity to taste and learn from the top level in Asia.
