South Korea manager Hong Myung-bo announced positional changes for the national team's upcoming World Cup group-stage match against South Africa [1].
These adjustments aim to increase the team's offensive output after previous matches where star player Son Heung-min struggled to find goals. The tactical shift is intended to optimize the squad's attacking effectiveness during a critical phase of the tournament.
Hong said that the starting lineup for the match scheduled for June 25 will see changes involving two or three players [1]. He said these modifications are a "big gift" for the squad [1].
Potential adjustments include moving Son Heung-min to the left wing to better leverage his playmaking and scoring abilities. The manager said that Oh Hyeon-gyu may be deployed as the primary striker to provide a more direct presence in the penalty area [1].
Additionally, the squad may see the inclusion of Jannes Castrop. Hong said he intends to utilize Castrop's attacking-oriented style to break through the South African defense [1].
"I think it will be a place where there is a big gift for our players," Hong said. "I think there will be changes in two or three positions tomorrow," he said [1].
The team is focusing on these specific role changes to ensure a more balanced transition from midfield to attack. By shifting Son and introducing a dedicated striker, the coaching staff hopes to create more scoring opportunities, and reduce the pressure on a single offensive source [1].
“"I think there will be changes in two or three positions tomorrow,"”
These tactical shifts suggest that South Korea is struggling with its current offensive structure and is prioritizing versatility over a fixed formation. By moving Son Heung-min to the wing and introducing a dedicated striker like Oh Hyeon-gyu, Hong Myung-bo is attempting to diversify the attack to prevent opponents from easily neutralizing the team's primary playmaker.
