South Korea has officially clinched its place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a decisive 2-0 win over Iraq on June 5, 2025, at Basra International Stadium. This result guarantees the Taeguk Warriors their eleventh consecutive World Cup appearance, further cementing their status as a powerhouse in Asian football.
Match Highlights and Key Performances
South Korea’s qualification was sealed through a dominant display against Iraq. The team controlled the match from the outset, enjoying 75.6% possession and outshooting their opponents 7 to 2. The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute when Kim Jin-gyu found the net, assisted by Lee Kang-in. Oh Hyeon-gyu added a second goal in the 82nd minute, effectively putting the game beyond Iraq’s reach and sparking celebrations among South Korean fans.
Head coach Hong Myung-bo’s tactical approach emphasized high pressing and efficient ball movement, allowing South Korea to neutralize Iraq’s counterattacks and maintain composure throughout the match. The squad’s depth and cohesion were evident, with players executing their roles seamlessly under pressure.
Group Performance and Road to Qualification
With this victory, South Korea strengthened its position at the top of Group B in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualification standings, amassing 19 points from 9 matches and remaining undefeated in the round. Their campaign featured five wins and four draws, with 16 goals scored and only 7 conceded, reflecting both attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Notable results in the qualification round included victories over Oman (3-1), Jordan (2-0), and Iraq (twice), along with hard-fought draws against competitive sides like Palestine and Jordan. The team’s consistency throughout the qualifiers has been a hallmark of their campaign.
A Legacy of World Cup Consistency
South Korea’s qualification for the 2026 tournament marks its eleventh consecutive appearance at the FIFA World Cup—a record for any Asian nation. The team, governed by the Korea Football Association and affectionately known as the “Reds,” has a storied World Cup history, highlighted by their historic run to the semi-finals as co-hosts in 2002.
The current squad, under the leadership of manager Hong Myung-bo, continues to build on this legacy. Hong, a former national team captain and World Cup hero, has instilled discipline and tactical flexibility, ensuring South Korea remains a formidable force on the continent and beyond.
Photo Credit: Arirang News screenshot
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