 "Asian Cup: South Korea was losing until 90+6′ but eliminated Australia")
A late goal and great goal in extra time ensured qualification for the semi-finals
Nine years later, South Korea avenged their defeat in the Asian Cup final against Australia, beating the Socceroos 2-1, with goals from the team’s two stars, Hee-Chan Hwang and Heung-min Son.
In the first half, South Korea had 70% possession of the ball, all of which was practically inconsequential, as Jurgen Klinsman’s men did not make any shots at this stage. For their part, the Australians were much more effective and scored close to half-time (41′), after Craig Goodwin completed a good team move with a first-time shot.
South Korea would later fight for a draw, being a dangerous team not so much because of their offensive organization, but above all because of the belief they always showed. However, Australia were always dangerous and could have condemned the game if they had been more effective, as Mitchell Duke missed a goal opportunity towards the end of the game (84′), heading, in the small area, just wide of the goal.
And at 90+4′, Lewis Mitchel brought down Son in the penalty area and a penalty was awarded for South Korea. The Tottenham athlete let Hwang, a Wolverhampton player, take responsibility for the moment and he responded in the best way possible, thus sending the game into extra time.
HWANG HEE-CHAN WITH THE 96TH MINUTE EQUALIZER FOR SOUTH KOREA. 🇰🇷
That is now their FOURTH straight AFC Asian Cup match with a second-half stoppage time goal. 😳 pic.twitter.com/eaZgKEH8Y0
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 2, 2024
The South Koreans had momentum on their side and took advantage of it to scare Australia when the match resumed, only missing the goal due to excellent interventions from goalkeeper Mathew Ryan.
The pressure continued to increase until the 103rd minute, when Son had a free-kick from the edge of the area, beating it in exemplary fashion.
Australia collapsed physically and mentally and the expulsion of Aiden O’Neil (105+4′) only helped to confirm the triumph of the South Koreans, who will now face the surprising Jordan in the semi-finals, on the 6th. of February.