Hwang In-beom (29, Feyenoord), returning from injury, participated in the final training ahead of the match against Jordan.

The soccer team, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo (56), will face Jordan in the '8th match of Group B in the third round of the 2026 FIFA North and Central American World Cup Asian qualifiers' at 8 p.m. on the 25th at Suwon World Cup Stadium.

South Korea drew 1-1 against Oman on the 20th, failing to maintain Hwang Hee-chan's opening goal. South Korea is recording 15 points (5 wins, 3 draws) and is maintaining a somewhat shaky first place in Group B, just 3 points ahead of second-place Jordan.

If South Korea had defeated Oman and Jordan, they could have secured their berth in the World Cup early. However, the shock draw against Oman postponed their progress.

There are major variables. The injuries of Kim Min-jae, Lee Kang-in, Baek Seung-ho, and Jeong Seung-hyun are concerning. Baek Seung-ho was substituted due to a left hamstring injury in the 38th minute of the first half against Oman. Lee Kang-in, who was substituted in his place, suffered an ankle injury in the 34th minute of the second half. As a result, all three players, including Jeong Seung-hyun who injured his left calf, were released from the squad on the 22nd. They plan to return to their club teams after receiving treatment domestically.

With the absence of Lee Kang-in and Baek Seung-ho, the team lacks players who can supply creative passes from the Chonbang position in the midfield. A defensive midfielder who can coordinate with Park Yong-woo is needed. This is why coach Hong Myung-bo is considering using Hwang In-beom.

In a silver lining, Hwang In-beom completed the final training held at Suwon World Cup Stadium on the 24th without any issues. Lightly running and stretching, Hwang In-beom engaged in ball recovery drills with teammates, including Hwang Hee-chan.

Hwang In-beom, who had injured his calf, showed no significant problems in training involving sprinting or kicking movements. With a bright expression, Hwang In-beom participated in the training with his teammates in a cheerful atmosphere.

However, after a long absence, Hwang In-beom may find it difficult to play the full match even if he starts. Coach Hong Myung-bo might opt to start Hwang In-beom as the best option but may replace him early, depending on the situation. Alternatively, he is considering leaving Hwang In-beom on the bench and bringing him in later.

Coach Hong Myung-bo noted, "Hwang In-beom is in a slightly better condition than we thought. He is in better shape by communicating with the club. His determination to play is strong. It is difficult to say at this point whether he will be 100% tomorrow. We need to consider when to protect him," hinting at his potential appearance.

Feyenoord, Hwang In-beom's club team, is closely monitoring his physical condition and availability to play. This is because Hwang In-beom is an important player.

Coach Hong Myung-bo had previously clashed with Bayern Munich over Kim Min-jae's call-up. However, now, there are not many options as there is no suitable replacement for Hwang In-beom on the national team. Hwang In-beom's participation in the match against Jordan is expected.

[OSEN]