"Is the current South Korea national team the best ever?"
It was an assessment closer to conviction than unfamiliar consolation. Ahead of the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup, the way people view South Korean soccer is changing completely.
Alberto, an Italy-born broadcaster, revealed his outlook on the national team led by coach Hong Myung-bo for the World Cup on the YouTube channel 비정상축구 on the 15th. Together with Fabian, who appears as a grants, they discussed a wide range of topics from the newly changed tournament format to South Korea's overall strength.
First, Fabian cited the "expanded format" as a variable in this tournament. He explained, "This is the first World Cup with 48 participating teams. The winners and runners-up of each group, along with the eight best third-place teams, advance to the round of 32," adding, "South Korea is in a group with Mexico, South Africa and the Czech Republic. A close contest is expected to the extent that every team could beat one another."
Alberto also focused on variables. He analyzed, "The new format increases the number of matches. Weather will also have a big impact," and said, "Mexican summers are much hotter than expected. When you add the high-altitude variable, fitness management will become extremely important." He went on to emphasize, "There is a high possibility of many upsets. Not only skill but stamina will determine the results."
But his evaluation of the South Korea national team was firm. Alberto said, "Honestly, of the South Korea national teams I have seen, I think this is the most complete team right now. Every position is balanced." He added, "Key players like Son Heung-min, Lee Kang-in and Hwang Hee-chan are already proven assets. With players who have developed both domestically and abroad added, the overall strength has solidified."
He also drew a line regarding fans' concerns. Alberto added, "The World Cup is the most important stage in players' lives. Everyone will play with everything on the line. There is no need to worry too much."
Opinions on specific goals also emerged. Fabian said, "Advancing to the round of 32 is basic. If they fail, it should be seen as a disappointing result," forecasting, "If they reach the round of 16, it can be judged a successful World Cup." In response, Alberto joked to lighten the mood, "If the results fall short of expectations, just think of Italy."
An expanded World Cup, unfamiliar conditions and heightened expectations. There are many variables, but external assessments of the national team are clearly changing. Attention is focused on what results South Korean soccer will produce in 2026 to meet these expectations.
[OSEN]