South Korean national football team manager Hong Myung-bo has taken full responsibility following the team's disappointing '3rd place' finish in the Group A stage of the 2026 FIFA North/Central America World Cup. Despite maintaining that there are no internal conflicts within the squad, Hong admitted that the team’s performance against South Africa—resulting in a 0-1 loss—and the inability to secure an automatic spot for the Round of 32 represent a 'worst-case scenario.' Facing mounting pressure and public scrutiny, including mentions during political hearings, Hong has publicly acknowledged his shortcomings in preparation and game management while struggling to identify the specific causes for the team's lackluster performance in recent matches. - Hong Myung-bo accepted full accountability for the team's failure to secure an automatic 32-round berth, calling the result a 'worst-case scenario.' - Despite persistent rumors of internal team discord, Hong insisted the squad's internal atmosphere remains normal and free of specific issues. - The team finished the group stage with a 1-1 record in matches played in Guadalajara, culminating in a 0-1 loss to South Africa. | South Korean national football team manager Hong Myung-bo has taken full responsibility following the team's disappointing '3rd place' finish in the Group A stage of the 2026 FIFA North/Central America World Cup. Despite maintaining that there are no internal conflicts within the squad, Hong admitted that the team’s performance against South Africa—resulting in a 0-1 loss—and the inability to secure an automatic spot for the Round of 32 represent a 'worst-case scenario.' Facing mounting pressure and public scrutiny, including mentions during political hearings, Hong has publicly acknowledged his shortcomings in preparation and game management while struggling to identify the specific causes for the team's lackluster performance in recent matches. - Hong Myung-bo accepted full accountability for the team's failure to secure an automatic 32-round berth, calling the result a 'worst-case scenario.' - Despite persistent rumors of internal team discord, Hong insisted the squad's internal atmosphere remains normal and free of specific issues. - The team finished the group stage with a 1-1 record in matches played in Guadalajara, culminating in a 0-1 loss to South Africa.