written by Il-han Ryu
Football Tribe Korea
On 7 June, South Korea faced Australia in Busan. Paulo Bento played a 3-5-2 formation in this friendly match. Tottenham star Son Heung-min and Hamburger SV striker Hwang Hee-chan started to lead the attack.
Despite the fact that it was away game, Australia dominated the game. It was threatening when Michell Duke’s header struck the post.
Korea was struggling against Australia’s robust defense based on their physical superiority. Passing was not as elaborate, which explains no attempt from the host in the first half, compared to four attempts from the opponent.
Gamba Osaka’s key player Hwang Ui-jo came in on 66 minutes. Bento also replaced Kim Jin-su and Lee Jae-sung with Hong Chul and Na Sang-ho, which turned out to be the right choice. In the 76th minute, Hong Chul sent a cross, which Hwang stole in at the near post and found the net.
Australia’s counterattack ironically gave Bento’s side enough space to counterattack as well. Son, who arrived in South Korea on 4 June after having participated in the UEFA Champions League final, found an opportunity as he broke through the defenders but his attempt was saved by Australia goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne.
Bento’s side won with Hwang’s winning goal. It was the first victory over Australia in the past four years since 2015.