Minamino and Kubo from Japan: "Korea Can Do It Too"

Japanese Players Wish for Korea's Victory Against Uruguay
Korean National Team Draws Attention to Continuing Asian Wave After Saudi Arabia and Japan

On the 23rd (Korean time), Japan achieved a 2-1 comeback victory against Germany in the first match of Group E in the Qatar World Cup, held at the Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar. Photo by AFP Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Bora Lee] The Japanese national team players, who defeated the favorite Germany 2-1 in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, have lent their support to South Korea ahead of their first match against Uruguay.

On the 23rd (Korean time), Japan secured a 2-1 comeback victory over Germany in the Group E first match of the Qatar World Cup held at Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar. While most expected Germany to win, Japan surprised the world by overturning the score with aggressive attacking play.

The day before, Saudi Arabia caused an upset by defeating the strong Argentina 2-1, signaling an Asian surge. Japan also achieved a comeback victory, drawing the attention of football fans to the next contender, South Korea. South Korea will play their Group H first match against Uruguay at 10 PM on the 24th at Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.

Meanwhile, Japanese national team forward Takumi Minamino (AS Monaco) expressed support for South Korea in an interview after Japan’s victory over Germany in their first group stage match at Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan during the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

Minamino briefly shared his thoughts, saying, "Honestly, it’s surprising. I’m happy about the win against Germany," while lending his support to the South Korean team. Minamino played a significant role in Japan’s 2-1 comeback victory over Germany, entering as a substitute in the 75th minute.

Minamino said, "There are friends including Hwang Hee-chan on the Korean team. Korea also has the ability to do something special," and added, "I want to see them win." Minamino played alongside Hwang Hee-chan at Austria’s Red Bull Salzburg.

Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad) also wished for South Korea’s victory. He said, "Lee Kang-in sent me a message yesterday wishing me luck. I will do the same for him," and added, "I know this tournament is very important for Lee Kang-in." He further expressed support for Lee Kang-in and the South Korean team, saying, "He is one of my closest friends in football, so I hope he does well."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.