Son Heung-min even took the water from the referee during the game
“Captain” Son Heung-min (Tottenham) revealed the captain’s dignity by revealing why he even took water from the referee during the game.
The match between South Korea and Saudi Arabia in the round of 16 at the 2023 Qatar Asian Cup held at Alaiyan Education City Stadium in Qatar on the 31st of last month (Korea time). The match was temporarily suspended due to a one-on-one situation in the second half of extra time and a collision between the players of the two teams.
At this time, broadcast cameras caught Son Heung-min approaching the referee. At first glance, it seemed like he was trying to protest. When Son Heung-min said something, the referee nodded. Then Son Heung-min took the water from the Korean coach’s side and handed it to the referee. The two choked together.
At an official press conference held at the Al Agla Training Center in Doha, Qatar, a question was raised. Asked by reporters whether there is a special reason why he communicates a lot by delivering water to the referee, Son said, “All teams are like that, but they always want a fair decision, but there are situations where they don’t,” adding, “Since referees are also human beings, there are definitely cases where they make mistakes.”
Son Heung-min said, “The coach always talks about it, but when I talk about it with manners, the referee has shown a lot of manners and respect for the player,” adding, “As the captain, I think it’s important for me to go to the referee before other players and talk politely.” He added, “I’m communicating with the referees while keeping the line to the extent that it doesn’t adversely affect the team, and I’m grateful that the referees respect it and recognize it well.”
In fact, there was a moment when Son Heung-min’s efforts shone in the round of 16 on the day. According to the Korea Football Association, the referee unilaterally decided to kick the ball to the left post based on the headquarters’ stand when the penalty shootout was decided. The reason was that the relay camera was installed on the side of the net.
Behind the net, however, were only Saudi fans wearing green uniforms. Immediately, Son protested to decide the goal by tossing coins according to the regulations. The referee accepted this. The toss enabled Korea to decide the goalpost.
Son Heung-min chose the right post to avoid Saudi fans. There were some Korean fans, and the Korean bench was close by. Goalkeeper Cho Hyun-woo put on a “first show” while listening to Korean fans cheering in close proximity. The result was Korea’s victory.
“If we had a penalty shootout in front of Saudi fans, we would have been at a disadvantage. A team that kicks near the bench is much more advantageous,” an official from the Korea Football Association said. “Son Heung-min is definitely a player who can be considered. He looked like a captain.”
BY: 스포츠토토핫