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South Korea looking to kickstart campaign against underrated Ghana
South Korea to win 2-1
Tournament: FIFA World Cup 2022 | Venue: Al Rayyan, Education City Stadium
Bet NowAlthough South Korea’s opening clash with Uruguay ended in a goalless draw, it was not without incident or intensity.
Son Heung-min, the hero of the people of Korea, was fit enough to play from the start although even he could not summon the quality required to break down a stubborn Uruguay outfit.
That draw has set the remaining game of Group H up nicely, with the loser here likely to face elimination heading into the final game.
Ghana impressed many with their energetic display against Portugal, scoring twice in what will have been a closer game than some would have predicted.
While Portugal ended up on top thanks to their greater quality, not to mention a Ronaldo penalty, Ghana showed that they may have a thing or two to say before all is said and done.
There is plenty riding on this one.
FIFA Ranking: 28
Predicted Finish: Group Stage
Reasons to be cheerful:
Frustrated Uruguay with an organised display
Will have more opportunities in front of goal here
Reasons to be fearful:
Struggled to get Son into the game against Uruguay
Must beat Ghana to stand a chance of qualification
There is a lot to like about this South Korean team, from their intensity when they don’t have the ball to their organised patterns of play when going forward.
In Son, they have a world-class superstar who is capable of producing moments of magic and winning games almost single-handedly for his team.
However, against Uruguay they struggled to get him into the game in the areas where he can cause damage. The Uruguayans, experienced and solid throughout the team, were able to cut off his supply.
It was a draw that neither side wanted, in reality. They must now win both of their remaining games in order to secure qualification, and that won’t come easy against an energetic Ghana and a talented Portugal.
To win here, Korea must be more efficient going forward. Like Japan, who have lost their second game against Costa Rica, they show great energy in the midfield but lack quality in the final third.
Star Man – Son Heung-min
Had one or two half chances in the game against Uruguay, but will need better service and more support from his teammates going forward. He should have more space to work in against Ghana.
FIFA Ranking: 61
Predicted Finish: Group Stage
Reasons to be cheerful
Scoring two goals against Portugal was a respectable achievement
Can spring a surprise with their pace and power
Reasons to be fearful
Will struggle to prevent opponents from scoring
Defeat here will mean elimination
Despite Ghana being the lowest-ranked team at this year’s World Cup, they gave us one of the most memorable games at the tournament so far.
Their match against Portugal was billed as a one-sided affair and when Cristiano Ronaldo netted a penalty that meant he’s the only player to score at five World Cups, many feared the worst for the African nation.
However, with a combination of brave attacking and poor defending from their opponents, they forced their way back into the game by equalising at 1-1.
Poor defending on their part then saw their opponents retake the lead and then kill the game off with a third, before Ghana scored a late but ultimately meaningless goal.
They will need to keep things much tighter at the back here if they are to stand a chance of picking up a vital three points.
Star Man – Mohammed Kudus
The 22-year-old looked lively and sharp throughout the game, but wandered away from the top of the pitch too often for his manager’s liking. Clearly has a special talent and needs to focus it on contributing to goals.
Will be a high-energy game
Can South Korea feed Son upfront?
Ghana to score and concede
This game is likely to come down to which defence, rather than attack, is better.
Ghana scored twice and conceded three in their first game, while the South Koreans couldn’t find the back of the net despite keeping a clean sheet in front of their own goal.
If the Koreans can provide the service that Son needs upfront, while remaining solid at the back, they should claim three precious points here.
South Korea to win 2-1
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