Following a thrilling comeback victory against Australia in the Asian Cup quarterfinals, South Korea’s style of play has been affectionately labeled “zombie football” by their fans, symbolizing a team that refuses to give up.
Coach Jurgen Klinsmann expressed his amusement with the nickname, stating, “Any nickname is fine with me!” after the game.
Dramatic Comeback
Trailing 1-0 after Craig Goodwin’s first-half goal, South Korea fought relentlessly to turn the tide. In the dying seconds of regular time, Son Heung-Min was fouled by Lewis Miller, leading to Hwang Hee-Chan’s equalizing penalty in the 96th minute.
In extra time, Miller brought down Hwang again, and Son sealed the comeback with a stunning free kick in the 104th minute, securing a semifinal berth against Jordan.
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Zombie-Fied Nickname
This remarkable victory marked the fourth consecutive game in which South Korea scored after the 90-minute mark, earning them the affectionate “zombie-fied” nickname as they aim to end a 64-year Asian Cup drought.
Psychological Factors and Team Spirit
Klinsmann attributed his team’s resilience to their strong collective mentality. He acknowledged the pressure of expectations back home but praised his players’ determination to overcome adversity and make their country proud.
Son Heung-Min Leadership and Determination
Son Heung-Min, who played a pivotal role in South Korea’s success, emphasized the importance of unity and determination within the team. Despite the physical challenges of playing extended minutes, Son highlighted the team’s unwavering spirit and commitment to achieving their goals.
Focused on the Trophy
Looking ahead to the semifinals, both Klinsmann and Son emphasized their singular focus on winning the Asian Cup trophy. They dismissed concerns about fatigue and emphasized the importance of mental strength and determination in pursuing victory for their country.
As South Korea prepares for the semifinal clash, their resilience and unwavering spirit continue to define their journey in the Asian Cup, earning them admiration and support from fans around the world.
