FIFA WC: South Korea stun Portugal 2-1, qualify for Round of 16
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 02 2022:
South Korea stunned Portugal by 2-1 goals thanks to a late winner at Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan to progress into the round of 16 of the ongoing Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022 as Group H runners up.
Despite the loss, Portugal finished Group winners.
Ricardo Horta had put Portugal ahead in the 5th minute by tapping in a fine cross but Kim Young-gwon pulled level in the 27th minute despite Portugal pressing hard with a barrage of incisive runs.
After settling the first half in a 1-1 draw, Portugal had a lion's share of possession and number of attempts but Hee-Chan Hwang scored in the 91st minute to turn things around and earn the win.
Uruguay managed to beat Ghana 2-0 thanks to Giorgian de Arrascaeta (26', 32') at Al-Janoub Stadium in another Group H encounter to remain in contention.
But it was not enough for Uruguay to make it to the pre-quarter finals on account of inferior goal difference.
Had Uruguay won 3-0 against Ghana today and the scoreline of Portugal vs Korea remained 2-1, they could have become group runners up and qualify for the last 16 round but Ghana's defence stood firm to deny any further goal from their rivals.