by
South Korea captain Son Heung-min said he cried “tears of happiness” after the Asian team beat Portugal 2-1 to reach the World Cup last 16 on Friday.
The Koreans appeared to be heading out of the tournament in Qatar for much of the game but Hwang Hee-chan’s 91st minute winner lifted them to second in Group H, behind Portugal.
Watch the world’s best footballers every week with beIN SPORTS on Kayo. LIVE coverage from Bundesliga, Ligue 1, Serie A, Carabao Cup, EFL & SPFL. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
They faced a nervous wait on the pitch for Uruguay’s match against Ghana to finish. The South Americans won 2-0 but were unable to find the one goal extra they needed, going out on goals scored.
Tottenham striker Son was again not at his best and has still not scored in Qatar, but produced a brilliant assist for Hwang’s winner.
“I believe these tears are tears of happiness,” said Son.
In or out? Japan pulls off SHOCK upset | 01:31
MORE COVERAGE
World Cup LIVE: Villain in tears as late madness dumps Uruguay out at first hurdle
‘Be honest’: Arnie tells players to put nation ahead of Messi moment as huge team calls loom
‘The game is up’: How $1.48b golden generation became football’s great ‘underachievers’
“We waited really long for this moment and we as players believed altogether we could do this.
“There were moments when I wasn’t able to do my best and I am thankful for my teammates that they were able to cover me in the moments I wasn’t able to fulfil my duties, and I’m very proud of them.”
South Korea, who were eliminated in the group stage in 2014 and 2018, have now reached the knockout phase for only the third time in their history.
If Brazil finish top of their group later Friday they will face South Korea in the next round.
“Going into the round of 16 was our goal and now we have higher goals and we will do our best to achieve those goals,” said Son.
“No one knows the world of football, especially now, and (if) we have a chance to beat Brazil we will do our best and prepare our best game.”
