Seoul: In a thrilling encounter, South Korea secured a spot in the Asian Cup semifinals by defeating Australia 2-1 in extra time, with Tottenham’s star player Son Heung-min stealing the show. Son’s decisive contribution included a stunning free-kick and winning a crucial penalty to level the scores deep into second-half stoppage time.
The match unfolded with Australia taking the lead in the 42nd minute, courtesy of Craig Goodwin’s volley following a defensive error by Hwang In-beom. South Korea faced an uphill battle, but Son’s heroics turned the tide.
Trailing in the dying moments, Son was fouled in the box by Lewis Miller, leading to a penalty that Hwang Hee-chan calmly converted in the 96th minute, forcing the match into extra time.
Son, the captain of both South Korea and Tottenham Hotspur, showcased his brilliance in the 104th minute with a sublime free-kick from the edge of the box, securing South Korea’s place in the semifinals and bringing them a step closer to lifting the Asian Cup for the first time since 1960.
The intensity of the match reached its peak as Australia finished with 10 men after Aiden O’Neill received a red card for a reckless challenge on Hwang at the end of the first period of extra time.
Son Heung-min, named the man of the match, expressed his determination to win the trophy, stating, “Fatigue, whatever — there are no excuses. We’re just trying to win the trophy and bring it back home.”
South Korea’s coach, Jurgen Klinsmann, faced criticism for the team’s performances but celebrated wildly with his players at the end, declaring, “We’re still here and we’re going to be here to the very end.” The win sets up a semifinal clash with Jordan, marking a significant step for South Korea in their quest for Asian Cup glory.