Son Heung-min named among '10 biggest disappointments' of North America World Cup
South Korea national team captain Son Heung-min has been named among the biggest disappointments of the 2026 FIFA North America World Cup. American sports media Sports Illustrated (SI) announced on the 14th that Son was included in their list of the 10 biggest disappointments of the tournament. South Korea started strongly with a win against Czech Republic but then lost consecutive matches to Mexico and South Africa, resulting in their group stage elimination. Currently, South Korea is in 3rd place with 3 points from 1 win and 2 losses.
Son Heung-min's poor performances
Son started in the matches against Czech Republic and Mexico but was substituted in both games. He came on as a substitute in the final group match against South Africa but failed to register any attacking points. SI noted that Son had been a key player for South Korea over the past decade but seemed to have lost his 'superpower' in this tournament. According to Opta statistics, Son's expected goals total was 1.05, the highest among scoreless players. He attempted 7 shots but only 1 was on target.
South Korea's group stage exit
SI suggested that while head coach Hong Myung-bo has faced criticism following the team's elimination, South Korea's results might have been different if Son had shown his usual finishing ability. South Korea has won 3 of their last 5 matches, drawing 1 and losing 1, and are currently on a 3-game winning streak. However, their World Cup campaign ended in disappointment despite a 1-0 win over Ghana in their last match.
Son Heung-min's future
Son was just two goals away from equaling Cha Bum-kun's record of 58 goals for South Korea before the tournament. However, his poor performances have raised concerns about his future. South Korea is currently 6 points behind leaders Mexico and will need to develop new strategies for future tournaments.
