Son Heung-min blamed South Korea’s shoddy pitches for his or her 2026 World Cup qualifying struggles after a 1-1 draw with Jordan left them sweating on an computerized place on the match.
HT Picture
The Koreans have been held at residence for a second recreation in a row on Tuesday after additionally drawing with Oman final week and maintain a precarious lead on the prime of Asian qualifying Group B with an away journey to third-placed Iraq nonetheless to come back.
South Korea’s two qualifiers in March have been moved away from Seoul due to the capital stadium’s poor pitch however skipper Son mentioned the turf was nonetheless under par and took purpose at his nation’s soccer directors.
“When we’re at home we’re supposed to enjoy the best playing conditions possible but things have not improved at all,” the Tottenham striker instructed reporters after the sport in Suwon.
“I know we can play better than this but when conditions on our home soil get in the way, then I wonder where we should get our home advantage.”
Poor pitches have been a working theme in South Korean soccer, with former Manchester United and England ahead Jesse Lingard additionally weighing in final month.
Lingard, who now performs for FC Seoul within the Ok League, tripped over a piece of turf whereas enjoying at residence for his membership and later took to social media to air his frustration.
South Korea’s World Cup qualifier towards Iraq in October final yr was additionally moved away from the capital due to the enjoying situations.
“I know this may sound like an excuse, but every small detail matters in football,” mentioned Son.
“It can make the difference of getting one point or getting three points. I hope people will pay closer attention to it.”
Lee Jae-sung gave South Korea the lead within the fifth minute earlier than Jordan equalised later within the first half.
The end result leaves the Koreans on prime of Group B with 16 factors, three forward of Jordan and 4 forward of Iraq, who suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Palestine.
The highest two qualify mechanically for the World Cup in 2026 in North America.
South Korea play Iraq away of their subsequent recreation earlier than rounding off their marketing campaign at residence to Kuwait.
“Despite this disappointment we’re still leading the group and that’s a fact,” mentioned Son.
“We want to stay there until the end of the round.”
amk/pst
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Manchester United