Hwang In-beom (29, Feyenoord) gave his all despite not being in perfect condition.

The national soccer team, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo (56), drew 1-1 with Jordan in the '2026 FIFA North and Central American World Cup Asian Qualifiers Group B Round 8' held at Suwon World Cup Stadium on the evening of the 25th.

Korea, in first place after drawing both home games (4 wins, 4 draws, 16 points), is now being chased by second-place Jordan (3 wins, 4 draws, 1 loss, 13 points) by 3 points. The early confirmation of qualifying for the World Cup finals has also slipped away.

Hwang In-beom, who injured his calf at Feyenoord, has not been able to play in matches for a while. Feyenoord showed sensitivity regarding Hwang's call-up to the national team. He is an important player for both his club and the national team.

With Lee Kang-in and Baek Seung-ho injured in the match against Oman, there were no options left. Hwang In-beom had to unpick the attack against Jordan. Coach Hong Myung-bo called on Hwang In-beom, who lived up to expectations. Hwang In-beom led the attack with several good passes.

Hwang In-beom played a longer-than-expected 80 minutes before being substituted for Oh Se-hoon. He poured in 120% effort and collapsed right after the substitution sign.

After the match, Hwang In-beom, met in the mixed zone, said, 'Looking at today's match alone, I couldn't show a good result. There were positive aspects, but I felt regret. There are two games in June. There’s no need to be discouraged. If we perform well in those two games, I believe we will qualify for the finals. I told the players not to get injured.'

How is his physical condition? He said, 'I have to carry some discomfort after returning from my calf injury. There’s no pain or anything like that. The coach let me rest in the first match, so I managed my body well. I played more matches than expected. My calf is still not in perfect condition. Fortunately, I have adapted well. As I gradually play matches after returning to the team, my physical condition will improve. I will show a better side in June.'

Coach Hong Myung-bo explained about Hwang In-beom, saying, 'I communicated with his club. I thought more than 70 minutes would be enough. He said he could play longer. The time (80 minutes) was his choice for substitution.'

The Hong Myung-bo team is struggling with 1 win and 3 draws at home. In the two home matches, they scored the opening goal but ended up drawing. Hwang In-beom said, 'After the match, I thought we had insufficient points at home. I talked with the older players. We did well on the road with 3 wins and 1 draw. I don’t know the exact reason for our home struggles. The players feel very sorry. The support and cheers from the fans at the stadium are great, yet we couldn't repay that. I feel regret and am sorry.'

It is true that Korea is still at the top of the group and close to qualifying for the World Cup finals. Hwang In-beom noted, 'I was very happy and grateful to fulfill my dream at the last World Cup. Many players haven’t experienced the World Cup. I think we should feel that once. I will prepare well with a sincere heart in June to achieve results,' as he led the younger players.

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