Image Source: BBC
South Korea vs Uzbekistan is underway at Yongin Mireu Stadium, with South Korea leading 1-0 at half-time in Tuesday’s international friendly. Captain Son Heung-Min gave the hosts a dream start by scoring after only six minutes.
The early goal has given Robert Moreno’s side an important advantage, although Uzbekistan have controlled much of the possession and created several opportunities. Fabio Cannavaro’s team remain a threat as the match continues into the second half.
South Korea vs Uzbekistan: Son Heung-Min Delivers Explosive Start
Son Heung-Min opened the scoring in the sixth minute, putting South Korea ahead before Uzbekistan had settled into the contest. The captain led the line alongside Oh Se-Hun in Moreno’s 4-4-2 formation.
South Korea also came close to adding a second before the break. Son tested goalkeeper Abduvokhid Nematov with a right-footed attempt from outside the penalty area, but the Uzbekistan goalkeeper made a strong save in the top centre of the goal.
Cho Hyun-Taek also forced Nematov into action with a left-footed effort from the left side of the box. Those moments kept South Korea dangerous despite the visitors enjoying more of the ball.
Uzbekistan Dominate Possession but Trail at Half-Time
According to the live match data, Uzbekistan had 58.1% possession, compared with South Korea’s 41.9%. The visitors completed 292 passes with an 81.8% accuracy rate, while South Korea recorded 215 passes at 77.7% accuracy.
Despite that advantage, the shot count was level. Both teams registered four attempts, while South Korea held a narrow edge in shots on target, three to two. Jo Hyeon-Woo made two saves for the hosts, and Nematov also produced two saves for Uzbekistan.
- Half-time score: South Korea 1-0 Uzbekistan
- Goal: Son Heung-Min, sixth minute
- Possession: South Korea 41.9%, Uzbekistan 58.1%
- Shots: South Korea 4, Uzbekistan 4
- Shots on target: South Korea 3, Uzbekistan 2
- Venue: Yongin Mireu Stadium
Key Line-Ups and Tactical Battle
South Korea began with Jo Hyeon-Woo in goal and a defence featuring Cho Hyun-Taek, Kim Tae-Hyeon, Lee Han-Beom and Kim Tae-Hyun. Lee Kang-In, Park Jin-Seob, Lee Jae-Sung and Hwang Hee-Chan formed the midfield, with Son and Oh Se-Hun leading the attack.
Uzbekistan used a 4-1-4-1 system. Nematov started behind a back four of Nasrullaev, Urozov, Khusanov and Karimov. Khamrobekov operated as the holding midfielder, with Fayzullaev, Mozgovoy, G’aniev and Khamdamov supporting captain Eldor Shomurodov.
The tactical contrast has been clear. South Korea have looked to attack quickly and use the pace of Son and Hwang Hee-Chan, while Uzbekistan have attempted to build through midfield and stretch the home defence with controlled passing.
Second-Half Pressure Could Decide the Friendly
Uzbekistan made a change at the interval, with Azizbek Amonov replacing Dostonbek Khamdamov. The substitution suggests Cannavaro wants greater attacking energy as his side searches for an equaliser.
South Korea will need to remain disciplined. Uzbekistan have already shown that they can move the ball effectively, and Shomurodov remains a focal point in the final third. The hosts, meanwhile, will hope Son’s early breakthrough creates space for further counterattacks.
The latest South Korea vs Uzbekistan score remains 1-0, but the match is still in progress and the outcome is far from settled. South Korea’s defensive organisation and Uzbekistan’s second-half response will be the decisive storylines when play resumes.
South Korea vs Uzbekistan FAQs
What is the current South Korea vs Uzbekistan score?
South Korea lead Uzbekistan 1-0 at half-time in the international friendly.
Who scored for South Korea?
Captain Son Heung-Min scored in the sixth minute to put South Korea ahead.
Where is the match being played?
The friendly is being played at Yongin Mireu Stadium in South Korea.
Who are the managers?
Robert Moreno is managing South Korea, while Fabio Cannavaro is in charge of Uzbekistan.
