In the opening match in Group H, South Korea grabbed a crucial point against Uruguay. Predictions that it would be ineffective against Uruguay were correct, but it ended in a 0-0 tie, demonstrating equal performance. South Korea went into Ghana with a lot of enthusiasm. In terms of objective strength, Ghana was rated lower than Uruguay and Portugal.
As a result, Korea needed to overcome Ghana in order to proceed to the round of 16. However, the outcomes were underwhelming. South Korea surrendered the opening goal to Salisu from a free kick in the 24th minute of the first half. They attempted to regroup, but instead provided another goal to Kudus in the 34th minute, resulting in a 0-2 halftime advantage.
There was also the possibility of a comeback. Coach Bento, who started Na Sang-ho, even allowed Lee Kang-in to play in the 12th minute of the second half. The result was instantly visible. In the opening minute, Lee Kang-in assisted Cho Kyu-sung’s goal. Korea, riding the momentum, succeeded in scoring again in the 16th minute of the second half.
However, Kudus scored again in the 23rd minute of the second half. Korea began an attack after being allotted 10 minutes of extra time, but they were unable to open Ghana’s goal. Korea, which is in the third position with one draw and one loss, must now win the final game against Portugal and then await the outcomes of Uruguay and Ghana.
According to the football statistics media ‘Five 38,’ Korea’s prospects of advancing to the round of 16 are not probable. Portugal had guaranteed their progress to the round of 16 at the completion of the second games, with a 99% likelihood of securing first place and just a 1% possibility of dropping to second place. According to the media, Uruguay has a 49% probability of going to the round of 16 while Ghana has a 42% chance of advancing.
Korea’s round of 16 has a 9% probability. Because Portugal presently has 6 points and South Korea currently has 1, they will not be able to claim first position even if they win the last game. There was just a 9% probability of finishing second. However, ‘Five 38’ estimated that Korea had a 17% probability of beating Portugal. The draw rate was 24%, with Portugal winning 59%.
