The Palestinian media outlet Palestine Football has recently described the atmosphere of South Korean football as being in a state of “turmoil and unrest.” However, they also acknowledge the strength of the South Korean national team.
The media outlet provides a detailed account of the farce surrounding the selection process of the new coach by the South Korean Football Association (KFA), with the intention of alleviating anxiety among local fans when facing strong opponents. “Since the dismissal of Klinsmann in February this year, South Korean football has gone through a difficult period, with the team failing to appoint a successor for nearly five months. After two interim coaches, the KFA appointed Hong Myung-bo in July, but the appointment process was criticized for flaws due to the resignation of the chairman of the committee for enhancing capabilities. Fans are still calling for the resignation of KFA President Chung Mong-gyu, and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has launched an investigation into the KFA. The Palestinian media believes that the special atmosphere created by home fans against the KFA could be beneficial to Palestine.”
However, the media outlet reminds readers that, apart from the tumultuous surrounding environment, the South Korean national team itself is very strong and poses a significant threat to Palestine. “Despite the negative evaluations surrounding the appointment of Hong Myung-bo, it’s worth noting that he is neither lazy nor incompetent.”
Finally, the media concludes: “The South Korean team was one of the best-performing Asian teams at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Palestinians will have to pin their hopes on former Best Asian Defender Hong Myung-bo, as his defense still has exploitable weaknesses.”