SHENZHEN, CHINA - South Korea continued their dominant start to the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a resounding 3-0 victory over China on Tuesday. Captain Son Heung-min was the star of the show, scoring two goals and providing an assist to seal an emphatic win for the Taegeuk Warriors.
In front of a packed crowd of over 40,000 at the Shenzhen Universiade Sports Centre, South Korea took control of the match early on. Hwang Hee-chan was brought down in the box after just 11 minutes, handing Son the opportunity to open the scoring from the penalty spot. The Tottenham Hotspur forward coolly converted the spot kick, silencing the home crowd and setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Son continued to be a menace for the Chinese defense, creating chances and threatening to add to his tally. He doubled South Korea's lead just before half-time with a brilliant header from a Lee Kang-in corner. The goal effectively put the game to bed, as China struggled to find a way back into the contest.
The second half was a more relaxed affair for South Korea, as they managed the game effectively and prevented China from mounting any serious threats. Jung Seung-hyun then added a third goal in the 87th minute, heading home from a Son free-kick to seal the victory in style.
Son's performance was once again outstanding, and he continues to be South Korea's talisman on the international stage. His goals and creativity were instrumental in securing all three points, and he will undoubtedly be a key figure in the team's quest for qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
With this victory, South Korea maintains their perfect record in Group C, having also defeated Singapore 5-0 in their opening match. They will now look to continue their winning streak when they face Lebanon in their next match on March 26, 2024.
