South Africa defeat fuels controversy over Kim Min-jae substitution and Hong Myung‑bo tactics

South Korea lost 0‑1 to South Africa in the Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers held at Monterrey’s Estadio Monte Alegre on 25 June 2024. The defeat left Korea with one win and two losses, sitting third in the group and needing a favorable result elsewhere to stay in contention for the round‑of‑32.

Defender Kim Min‑jae was taken off just before the hydration break in the second half. He later sent a letter to the Korea Football Association stating that he asked to be substituted because of discomfort in his right calf and that his subsequent gestures on the bench were misinterpreted. Kim said, “It was not a protest; I requested the change because of my calf.” He also apologized for any misunderstanding and noted the injury was not serious.

Coach Hong Myung‑bo faced intense criticism for his tactical choices, including the three‑back system and the decision to bench star forward Son Heung‑min. Hong attributed the poor performance to the extreme heat, psychological pressure on the players, and said there was no internal conflict in the squad. International media echoed the criticism, calling the tactical plan a “mistake” and the omission of Son “unthinkable.”