데이터가 예고한 첫 승의 향기: 홍명보호, 북중미 월드컵을 향한 첫 번째 발걸음 > K-wave Trends

According to Opta's simulation results, Korea's probability of winning by defeating the Czech Republic is approximately 42.9%, which is significantly ahead of the Czech Republic's probability of winning at 31.1%. The reason Korea is statistically superior is not simply due to the difference in FIFA rankings (Korea 25th, Czech Republic 40th). The experience of Korea winning 2-1 in the last match in 2016 had a positive impact on the data model, and the fact that Korea's offensive line, led by Son Heung-min and Cho Kyu-sung, is showing consistent scoring ability was highly evaluated. However, the fact that Korea has won only 7 out of 38 games in previous World Cups and has a low win rate is a cautionary point suggested by the data. Nevertheless, the fact that Korea's probability of advancing to the round of 32 exceeds 70% suggests that if they secure a point in this first game, they can cross the 8th division of the tournament.

The Czech Republic is by no means an easy opponent, and in particular, the destructive power of aerial duels and set-piece situations with tall players over 190cm are the elements that the Korean defense must be most wary of. The Czech Republic's record of scoring 7 goals from corner kicks in the European qualifiers proves how dangerous their height is, and the presence of attack core Patrick Schick and captain Ladislav Krejic is a huge burden for Korea. In particular, Krejci is a teammate of Hwang Hee-chan at Wolverhampton in the Premier League and is likely to understand the tactical characteristics of the Korean team better than anyone else. How to control the Czech Republic's physical advantage is the key to this game, and coach Hong Myung-bo is known to be preparing tactical countermeasures specialized for set-piece defense and aerial ball duels.

Coach Hong Myung-bo is focusing on improving tactical perfection by conducting closed training under strict security. The national team even skipped the customary stadium turf acclimatization training, a strategic choice made based on the judgment that the grass conditions at Chivas Valle Verde, the base camp, and Guadalajara Stadium, the stadium, were the same. This part shows Coach Hong's will to minimize unnecessary movement and exposure and maximize tactical perfection at the training ground. Tight security is maintained locally, with even Mexican military troops mobilized, which is an expression of the team's strong will not to provide any tactical clues to the opposing team. The national team's closed-door training, where they are refining their set-piece tactics, is interpreted as an elaborate process of planning to neutralize the Czech Republic's tall corps and take control of the game.

Cheering in Korea is also reaching its peak. In accordance with the group stage schedule, which starts with the Czech Republic game on the 12th and continues with the Mexico game and South Africa game, large-scale street cheering will be held throughout Seoul, including Gwanghwamun Square, Ttukseom Hangang Park, and COEX. Seoul City and the Korea Football Association have deployed a large number of safety management personnel to recreate the glory of 2002, and have fully prepared to ensure that citizens can safely watch the game even in the sweltering heat. In particular, Ttukseom Hangang Park is expected to be a place for festivals as it hosts a variety of events, including game broadcasts, uniform coloring, and player locker room experiences. This national support will also be a great help to the players struggling far away in Mexico, and the energy radiating from the field and home as one will be another highlight of this World Cup.