The South Korea boss for the Qatar World Cup, Paulo Bento, has explained to Sky Sports’ Football Daily how his star man Heung-min Son suffered to be at the tournament.
Son captained the South Korea side at the tournament, and while he was unable to add to his 35 goals at international level, he made it to 108 caps and even added an assist during the group stages (Transfermarkt).
Despite failing to win their opening two games, South Korea pulled off a brilliant win over Portugal in their final group game to qualify for the knockout stages.
That game saw Son provide a memorable assist as he carried the ball from his own half before laying on the perfect pass for Hwang Hee-chan to score a last-gasp winner.
South Korea ultimately succumbed to a heavy defeat by Brazil in the last-16 tie, losing 4-1 on the night. Nevertheless, it was a strong showing for the Asian side, who few expected to even get past the group stage.
On his Instagram, Son reflected on the tournament with an emotional post in which he admitted he wanted to do better. A quick look at the comments section would tell you Son did a great job, and has been celebrated as a hero by the South Korean fans.
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According to his former national team manager Paulo Bento, who resigned from his post after their elimination, the 30-year-old gave everything to be at the World Cup despite his injury problems, and suffered for it.
Bento said: “He’s the one that suffered a lot and suffered more than other people. His desire to be with us.”
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We all know how passionate and determined Sonny is and there’s no doubting he played through the pain at the World Cup. He never quite got to his best, but he would rather be there and do what he can than miss out, and that spirit has to be commended.
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