Hong Myung-bo’s Team Falls 0-1 to Austria, Defense Crumbles Again
South Korea suffered a 0-1 defeat to Austria at Ernst-Happel Stadium in Vienna. The match kicked off at 3:45 a.m. Korea Standard Time on the 1st.
Hong Myung-bo was in charge as head coach. The loss followed a 0-4 defeat to Ivory Coast on the 28th in Milton Keynes, England.
Match summary
South Korea started in a 3-4-2-1 shape. Son Heung-min led the attack, flanked by Lee Jae-sung and Lee Kang-in.
South Korea dominated early possession and outshot Austria 6-1 in the first half. Kim Min-jae’s missed header was the only notable chance converted into threat.
The match’s decisive moment arrived early in the second half. Ksaber Schlager cut the ball back and Marcel Javicher struck home from close range.
Chances and changes
Son had three clear opportunities but failed to score. His left-foot attempts missed or were saved on multiple occasions.
Coach Hong made several substitutions in the second half. Hwang Hee-chan, Hong Hyun-seok and Yang Hyun-joon entered midway through the half.
Later changes brought Oh Hyun-kyu, Kwon Hyuk-kyu and Um Ji-sung onto the field. A late offside call and goalkeeper saves prevented an equalizer.
Defensive worries and squad context
Hong Myung-bo’s Team Falls 0-1 to Austria and defensive frailties were apparent. The three-back system looked vulnerable in both recent friendlies.
Defense Crumbles Again described the mood among supporters after two scoreless outings. South Korea failed to find the net in both warm-up games.
The team sits 22nd in FIFA rankings, with Austria 24th. The article noted the 2026 World Cup was roughly 70 days away and the final squad selection looms.
Injuries and lineup notes
- Kim Joo-sung left injured in the first half and was substituted.
- Defensive starters included Kim Min-jae and Lee Han-beom.
- Midfield featured Lee Tae-seok, Kim Jin-kyu, Baek Seung-ho and Seol Young-woo.
South Korea must address both goal scoring and defensive stability. Preparation time is limited before the squad announcement.
Reporting and coverage by Filmogaz.com.
