South Korea faces shock as Son omission meets ESPN D‑grade

South Korea's national team fell 0‑1 to South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, sealing their exit. ESPN gave the side a D‑grade, lambasting former coach Hong Myeong‑bo's decision to bench Son Heung‑min (LAFC) and calling it self‑destructive. South Korea currently sits 3rd in the World Cup, 3 points, 1W‑0D‑2L, with a recent form of 3W‑0D‑2L (the last two matches lost).

Why did ESPN hand South Korea a D‑grade?

ESPN noted that before the final group match, South Korea had a "perfect scenario" to secure a round‑of‑16 spot in Los Angeles. Hong’s choice to leave Son on the bench and the subsequent 0‑1 loss to South Africa were described as a "significant weakening of the squad". After an opening 2‑1 win over the Czech Republic, defeats to Mexico and South Africa left the team scoring 2 and conceding 3 (‑1 goal difference).

How did other outlets rate the performance?

The Athletic dropped South Korea to 38th in its power ranking, calling the result a "clear regression" from the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Mexico earned a B+, while South Africa received a B. ESPN also gave the Czech Republic a D‑grade, saying "they showed almost no attacking threat outside set‑pieces." These harsh assessments have sparked intense debate among Korean fans.

What must South Korea do moving forward?

South Korea trails group leader Mexico by 6 points. After the 1‑0 loss to South Africa on 2026‑06‑25, the squad needs to revamp its attack and find a role for Son. With two consecutive defeats in the last five games, securing at least a draw in the next match is essential. Supporters are loudly demanding a coaching change and tactical overhaul.

Questions that remain unanswered

How will South Korea absorb the criticism and adjust for the remaining World Cup fixtures? Will Son Heung‑min return to the starting XI, and can the team climb back to 3rd place and earn points in the final group game? The answers will shape the nation's World Cup narrative.