Hosts South Korea claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Ghana’s Black Stars in a gripping international friendly at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, wrapping up their 2025 calendar on a high note.
VIDEO: Ghana vs South Korea Friendly Match Ends in 1 Goal Thriller
The match, attended by over 60,000 passionate fans, highlighted the Taeguk Warriors’ clinical finishing and defensive solidity under coach Hong Myung-bo, providing a timely boost ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The deadlock was broken in the 63rd minute when Ulsan Hyundai midfielder Lee Tae-seok unleashed a stunning long-range strike from 25 yards, curling the ball into the top corner beyond the despairing dive of Ghanaian goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi. The goal, Lee’s first for the senior national team, ignited jubilant scenes among the home support and shifted the momentum decisively in South Korea’s favor.
Despite Ghana’s spirited response, with forward Kamaldeen Sulemana testing the woodwork late in the game, South Korea’s backline—anchored by captain Kim Min-jae remained unbreached. Star winger Son Heung-min dazzled with his dribbling but was denied twice by Ati-Zigi’s acrobatic saves, underscoring the fine margins in this evenly contested affair.
Otto Addo’s Black Stars, fresh off a 2-0 loss to Japan earlier in the tour, showed flashes of attacking intent through Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams but struggled to convert possession into clear-cut opportunities. The defeat serves as a learning curve for Ghana as they fine-tune preparations for African qualifiers resuming in March 2026.
Hong Myung-bo lauded his squad’s resilience post-match, saying, “This hard-earned win against a formidable African side reaffirms our progress now we build on it.” Fans can expect more insights from Ghana Trends Media, your go-to source for Black Stars analysis, global football recaps, and trending sports buzz.
