The South Korea men's national football team, the Taegeuk Warriors, have appointed Robert Moreno as their interim head coach. The Korea Football Association confirmed the move on Tuesday, with Moreno's contract running through November 27 and covering six matches.
South Korea has been seeking new leadership since Hong Myung-bo stepped down following the team's group-stage exit at the FIFA World Cup in June. The team currently sits 3rd in their World Cup qualifying group with 3 points from 3 games (1 win, 2 losses). Their recent form over the last five matches is 3 wins and 2 losses, but they have lost their last two outings.
What does the new coaching staff look like
Robert Moreno has brought in Eduardo Docampo as his first assistant coach and Jacint Magrina as an analyst. Victor Brave de Soto will handle tactics, Javier Chocarro takes fitness, and Nico Bosch is the goalkeeping coach. Hyun Young-min, head of the KFA's National Teams Committee, noted that every member of Moreno's staff holds a UEFA Pro License. Moreno said, "I have known and respected Korean football for years, and now my job is to work for it."
What are Moreno's biggest strengths
Hyun Young-min was impressed by the depth of Moreno's knowledge of Korean football. He added that Moreno knew the K League and its players so well it was almost refreshing. Moreno sought to reach out to Korean players based in Europe before signing the contract and has experience working with high-level players who have strong personalities. His ability to analyze opponents using data and deploy a wide range of tactics are considered his key assets.
What is the upcoming schedule and how will he be evaluated
Moreno's first task will be to lead the team in a home match against Ecuador on September 24. This is followed by home games against Uruguay on September 28, Venezuela on October 2, and Uzbekistan on October 6. The KFA is trying to schedule two more matches in November. Moreno's longer-term future depends on the team's performance in these six matches; strong results could see him remain in charge for the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia this January.
What is the team's current context
The Taegeuk Warriors' last result was a 1-0 loss to South Africa on June 25. This season, they have scored 2 goals and conceded 3, for a goal difference of -1. They trail group leaders Mexico by 6 points. The team's full schedule and squad list can be found on our fixtures and squad pages. Moreno stated, "I will not promise results: I promise work, honesty and respect. Whatever we have to say, we will say it on the pitch." His first official test comes at home against Ecuador on September 24, 2026.
